Legal Definitions - repealing statute

A repealing statute is a law that revokes or cancels an earlier statute. It may replace the earlier statute or simply remove it from the books.

For example, if a state passes a law legalizing marijuana, and then later passes a repealing statute that makes marijuana illegal again, the original law is no longer in effect.

Another example is if a city passes a law requiring all businesses to close by 10pm, and then later passes a repealing statute that removes that requirement, businesses can stay open later without penalty.

Repealing statutes are important because they allow lawmakers to change or remove outdated or ineffective laws. They also ensure that the legal system remains current and relevant to the needs of society.