FOCL Practice Test

What are criminal laws enacted by Texas municipalities referred to as?

1. State statutes

2. City ordinances

3. Federal regulations

4. Administrative codes

The correct answer is: City ordinances

The laws enacted by Texas municipalities that address criminal behavior are referred to as city ordinances. City ordinances are local laws that are specific to a municipality, allowing local governments to address issues pertinent to their communities. This authority is granted to municipalities by the state, enabling them to create regulations that can govern behaviors within their jurisdiction, such as noise control, zoning, public safety, and other local matters. In contrast, state statutes are laws that are established at the state level by the legislature, federal regulations are developed by national government agencies, and administrative codes detail procedures and regulations developed by state or local agencies. Therefore, city ordinances specifically pertain to laws that are unique to each city or municipality, distinguishing them from other legal frameworks.