Public Enterprises in the United States of America

This article examines public enterprises in the United States of America, investigating their types, activities, historical origins, and certain aspects of their legal status. Public enterprises, which are primarily involved in the construction of public works and the management of public utility services, are mainly funded through revenues generated from their activities and the issuance of bonds. They are often established through special acts that define their structure and management, drawing inspiration from private corporate structures, which are regarded as examples of efficiency. The similarities with private models are more evident in some cases and less so in others. Public enterprises are exempt from many restrictions imposed on government agencies and departments. They have broad autonomy in defining the economic treatment of their employees and can procure goods and services without having to undertake cumbersome bidding procedures. This study focuses on the following aspects of public enterprises: the constraints imposed on them by the federal Constitution; the applicability of administrative procedure acts and transparency obligations; their funding and tax regime; and, the regulations governing their personnel and contracting activities.