Federal Laws, Amendments, and Agencies Overview

Civil Service Act

Established merit-based federal employment system.

Hatch Act

Limits political activities of federal employees.

Social Security Act

Created social insurance program for retirees.

War Powers Resolution

Restricts presidential military engagement without Congress approval.

Civil Rights Act

Prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion.

Voting Rights Act

Protects voting rights for racial minorities.

Title IX

Prohibits gender discrimination in educational programs.

Congressional Budget Act

Regulates federal budget process and spending.

Endangered Species Act

Protects threatened and endangered species and habitats.

Clean Water Act

Regulates pollutant discharges into U.S. waters.

Clean Air Act

Sets air quality standards to protect public health.

Americans with Disabilities Act

Prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities.

Welfare Reform Act

Reformed welfare system to promote work and self-sufficiency.

USA Patriot Act

Expanded government surveillance capabilities post-9/11.

Affordable Care Act

Increased healthcare access and affordability for Americans.

USA Freedom Act

Reformed aspects of the USA Patriot Act.

1st Amendment

Protects freedom of speech, religion, and press.

2nd Amendment

Guarantees the right to bear arms.

4th Amendment

Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures.

5th Amendment

Ensures due process and protects against self-incrimination.

6th Amendment

Guarantees right to a fair trial.

7th Amendment

Guarantees right to jury trial in civil cases.

8th Amendment

Prohibits excessive bail and cruel punishment.

10th Amendment

Reserves powers not delegated to federal government.

13th Amendment

Abolished slavery and involuntary servitude.

14th Amendment

Grants citizenship and equal protection under law.

15th Amendment

Prohibits voting discrimination based on race.

16th Amendment

Allows federal income tax collection.

17th Amendment

Established direct election of U.S. Senators.

19th Amendment

Granted women the right to vote.

22nd Amendment

Limits presidential terms to two.

24th Amendment

Prohibits poll taxes in federal elections.

25th Amendment

Establishes procedures for presidential succession.

26th Amendment

Lowers voting age to 18 years.

Department of State

Handles foreign affairs and diplomatic relations.

Department of the Treasury

Manages national finances and economic policy.

Department of Justice

Enforces federal laws and oversees legal affairs.

Federal Reserve

Controls monetary policy and regulates banks.

FCC

Regulates interstate and international communications.

FDA

Ensures safety of food and pharmaceuticals.

Department of Health and Human Services

Oversees public health and welfare programs.

SEC

Regulates securities markets and protects investors.

Department of Veteran Affairs

Provides services for military veterans.

EPA

Protects human health and the environment.

Department of Transportation

Manages national transportation systems and infrastructure.

Department of Education

Administers federal education programs and policies.

Department of Homeland Security

Protects against domestic threats and disasters.

FEC

Regulates campaign finance and electoral processes.

FBI

Investigates federal crimes and national security threats.

CIA

Conducts foreign intelligence and counterintelligence operations.

FTC

Protects consumers and promotes competition.

OMB

Assists in budget formulation and management.

National Security Council

Advises president on national security matters.

CEA

Advises president on economic policy.

FEMA

Coordinates federal disaster response and recovery.