Comment: Parens Patriae :  (See in situ)  Parens Patriae :  This
is the "philosophy" used to explain the arrogation of power in
these matters.  Parens patriae is Latin for "parent of the
nation." In law, it refers to the public policy power of the
state to intervene against an abusive or negligent parent, legal
guardian or informal caretaker, and to act as the parent of any
child or individual who is in need of protection. For example,
some children, incapacitated individuals, and disabled
individuals lack parents who are able and willing to render
adequate care, requiring state intervention. In U.S. litigation,
parens patriae can be invoked by the state to create its
standing to sue; the state declares itself to be suing on behalf
of its people. For example, the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust
Improvement Act of 1976 (15 USC 15(c)), through Section 4C of
the Clayton Act, permits state attorneys general to bring parens
patriae suits on behalf of those injured by violations of the
Sherman Antitrust Act.