Basic Law of the Vatican City, June 7, 1929

The Supreme Pontiff, Sovereign of the Vatican City State, has full legislative, executive and judicial powers. During the vacant See, the same powers belong to the Sacred College, which may issue legislative provisions only in cases of urgency and to take effect no later than the duration of the vacancy, unless they are confirmed by the Supreme Pontiff subsequently elected according to the norms of the sacred constitutions.