What term describes a local government's action that exceeds its legal authority?

What term describes a local government's action that exceeds its legal authority?

• A. Implied power
• B. Express power
• C. Ultra vires action
• D. Inherent authority

Answer: (C)

Local governments operate under powers granted by their charter or enabling statutes. When an action goes beyond what those laws authorize, it is described as ultra vires, meaning beyond the powers. Such actions are typically void or can be challenged in court because the government lacks authority to act outside its granted scope. The other terms describe different ideas: implied power is power inferred to carry out explicit duties; express power is power clearly granted in the charter; inherent authority refers to a broad, foundational capacity of government but does not by itself describe exceeding statutory limits. So, ultra vires action best describes exceeding legal authority.

Local governments operate under powers granted by their charter or enabling statutes. When an action goes beyond what those laws authorize, it is described as ultra vires, meaning beyond the powers. Such actions are typically void or can be challenged in court because the government lacks authority to act outside its granted scope. The other terms describe different ideas: implied power is power inferred to carry out explicit duties; express power is power clearly granted in the charter; inherent authority refers to a broad, foundational capacity of government but does not by itself describe exceeding statutory limits. So, ultra vires action best describes exceeding legal authority.