What is the primary publication where executive orders have the effect of law in the federal system?

The Federal Register is the main publication in which executive orders issued by the President of the United States are formally recorded and have the effect of law. This publication serves several key functions, including providing a reliable source for the public to access government regulations and notices, as well as those executive orders that detail directives requiring enforcement.

Executive orders are legally binding and created under the President’s statutory or constitutional authority; once published in the Federal Register, they become part of the official record and can be referenced by the public, agencies, and courts. This is essential for maintaining transparency in government operations and ensuring that citizens and entities can better understand their rights and obligations under executive directives.

Other options do not fulfill this function. The Congressional Record mainly documents discussions and proceedings in Congress, while the Supreme Court Journal reflects decisions made by the Supreme Court and does not serve to publish executive orders. The Executive Order Archive, while potentially useful, is not an official publication where executive orders are given effect under federal law. Thus, the Federal Register is the correct source for the legal standing of executive orders.