This volume investigates the constitutional and practical challenges that emerge when Congress delegates excessive discretionary authority to administrative agencies. John L. FitzGerald, drawing upon his expertise in legal and legislative processes, examines the historical tension between legislative and executive branches. He argues that the current practice of indefinite statutory delegation undermines the separation of powers and proposes a framework for more precise legislative policy-making to ensure effective oversight.

Legal scholars and political scientists frequently cite this work as a focused examination of the mechanics of legislative delegation. Readers often note the academic density of the prose, which serves as a technical resource for those studying the intersection of constitutional law and administrative practice.