Homonym: Act (Action)
An "Act" is a formal decision or law made by a legislative body, such as a parliament or congress. It is a written document that outlines specific rules or regulations that govern behavior within a society. Acts can address various issues, including public health, education, and civil rights, and they often require approval from both houses of the legislature before becoming law.
Once an Act is passed, it is typically assigned a title and a number for identification. It may also include provisions for enforcement and penalties for violations. Examples of significant Acts include the Civil Rights Act and the Affordable Care Act, which have had a profound impact on American society.