Contract State

= the vast extension, in the age of privatisation and outsourcing, of business activity which operates as a franchise sheltered by a contract with public authority [1]

Discussion

see also the 'regulatory state': "the rise of a web of regulations governing the terms under which business can operate, and often conferring on enterprises regulated protection from competitors: the classic example is the way planning regulations in effect confer local monopolies or duopolies on supermarkets established in particular local communities." (http://manchestercapitalism.blogspot.com/2014/02/introducing-foundational-economy.html)