What is a formal written enactment by the legislative department of government known as?

A formal written enactment by the legislative department of government is known as a statute. Statutes are laws that are created and passed by legislative bodies, such as Congress or state legislatures. They serve as documented legal rules that govern behavior within a specific jurisdiction and are important for establishing legal standards and frameworks.

The legislative process involves proposing and debating a bill, which, once approved by the legislative body, becomes a statute. Statutes are distinct from other forms of law; for example, regulations are rules created by government agencies based on statutes, while ordinances are laws enacted by local government entities, and bylaws refer to rules governing the internal management of an organization or corporation. Understanding the definition and role of statutes is crucial in the field of law and governance.