grandfather clause

Definition of "grandfather clause"
  1. A provision allowing existing entities to be exempt from a new law or regulation, while the new entities are subject to it
How to use "grandfather clause" in a sentence
  1. The new zoning law cannot apply to Mr. Johnson's property due to a grandfather clause.
  2. The law implemented a higher age limit for drinking, but a grandfather clause allowed those already of legal age to continue drinking.
  3. Mary's business was able to operate under old regulations due to a grandfather clause in the new law.

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