What is the purpose of the Reading Down remedy in legal statutes?

The Reading Down remedy serves to ensure that a statute remains valid within the parameters of legislative powers, particularly when there are concerns that certain provisions may infringe upon constitutional protections or rights. When a court applies the Reading Down approach, it interprets the statute in a way that limits its application, thereby aligning it more closely with the intended legislative purpose. This is crucial for maintaining the statute's overall validity by preserving its core components while avoiding any unconstitutional applications.

Through this remedy, the court seeks to balance the enforcement of legislative intent with the protection of constitutional rights. This approach acknowledges the importance of upholding the rule of law while also recognizing the necessity of adhering to constitutional principles. By modifying how the statute is applied or understood, the Reading Down remedy effectively upholds the legislative framework without risking invalidation due to potential conflicts with constitutional standards.