What is the term for the power to adopt laws for public protection?

The correct term for the power to adopt laws for public protection is police power. This concept refers to the inherent authority of the state to enact laws and regulations to promote the health, safety, morals, and general welfare of its citizens. Police power is a fundamental aspect of the state's ability to maintain order and safeguard the community, allowing it to regulate activities that may harm or endanger public well-being.

In this context, police power includes the enactment of laws regarding zoning, health codes, safety regulations, and other measures aimed at protecting the public. This power is vital for maintaining social order and ensuring that individuals’ rights do not infringe upon the rights and safety of others.

While regulatory power might seem relevant, it is generally understood as a subset of police power, focusing specifically on the authority to create rules and regulations within a defined area, usually related to specific industries or activities. Executive power pertains to the enforcement of laws and is not primarily concerned with making laws for public protection. Judicial power is related to interpreting laws and administering justice and does not involve creating laws for public welfare.