Policy vs. Act — What's the Difference?

A policy outlines principles and guidelines intended to influence and determine decisions, actions, and other matters. It serves as a framework within which decisions are made, often by organizations, governments, or other entities, to achieve specific outcomes. In contrast, an act refers specifically to legislation passed by a governmental body, such as a parliament or congress, that becomes law. Acts are formal legal documents that have been approved and enacted and are enforceable by law.

While policies can be adopted by various organizations and are not limited to governmental entities, acts are exclusively governmental and have the force of law behind them. Policies can guide the creation of acts and other forms of legislation, serving as the rationale for the legal frameworks established by governments. On the other hand, acts are the concrete realization of these policies in the form of laws.

Policies are broader in scope and can encompass general guidelines, strategies, and approaches to achieve certain goals. They do not necessarily have legal authority on their own but can influence or dictate the development of laws and regulations that do. Conversely, acts are specific in nature, detailing the legal obligations, rights, and penalties associated with compliance or noncompliance.

The development of a policy can be a consultative process involving stakeholders, public input, and expert advice to ensure that it meets the needs and goals of the organization or community it serves. Acts, however, go through a formal legislative process, including debate, amendment, and voting within a legislative body, before being signed into law by the relevant authority.

The implementation of policies often requires ongoing management and review to ensure they remain effective and relevant. Acts, once passed, become part of the legal framework and require enforcement by governmental agencies, with changes or amendments subject to additional legislative processes.