Independent agencies have a tendency to focus more on social regulation,whereas executive agencies are more often focused on economic regulation.

Independent Agencies

Government organizations that operate independently of the executive departments, tasked with regulating and overseeing specific areas of public policy.

Social Regulation

Rules imposed by government to correct market failures and achieve social policy goals, such as environmental protection and worker safety.

Executive Agencies

Agencies of the executive branch of government that are task-focused and responsible for the execution of laws and government policies.