Grandfather clause

A grandfather clause, also known as grandfather policy or grandfathering, is a legal provision that allows individuals or entities to continue operating under an old rule, even after a new rule or regulation has been implemented. Those who benefit from this clause are said to have "grandfather rights" or to have been "grandfathered in." The exemption generally applies to situations that existed before the introduction of new laws or regulations, while future scenarios are subject to the updated rules. Grandfather clauses are often used in contexts such as regulatory changes, voting rights, or licensing laws, as a practical way to avoid disrupting established practices.