PSI Virginia Real Estate Practice Exam

Which right allows a government to impose regulations to protect public health and safety?

1. Eminent Domain

2. Escheat

3. Police Power

4. Special Assessment

The correct answer is: Police Power

The concept of police power refers to the authority granted to governments to enact legislation and regulations aimed at promoting and protecting public health, safety, morals, and general welfare. This power allows for the establishment of zoning laws, building codes, health regulations, and other measures designed to ensure the well-being of the community. For instance, a local government may use its police power to regulate the construction of buildings to ensure they meet safety standards, or to implement health codes to control the spread of diseases. In contrast, eminent domain allows the government to take private property for public use, provided there is just compensation, which is separate from regulations aimed at health and safety. Escheat involves the transfer of property to the state when an individual dies without a will or heirs, and it does not relate to public health regulations. Special assessments refer to charges levied on property owners for specific improvements or services that benefit their property, which is again a different focus than the general exercise of police power for public welfare.