New Rules for Federal Agencies: Increased Cost Analysis and Public Review
This Act imposes strict new requirements on federal agencies when creating regulations, especially those deemed "major" (costing over $100 million). Agencies must now rigorously prove that the benefits of a major rule justify its costs, selecting the alternative that maximizes net benefits. The changes aim to increase transparency and public participation by mandating data accessibility and extended comment periods.
Key points
Agencies must conduct detailed cost-benefit analyses for major rules and adopt the option that maximizes net benefits, unless an exception is approved.
All underlying data and studies used to justify a rule must be made publicly accessible, and the public comment period for major rules is extended to a minimum of 90 days.
Courts are required to decide all questions of law de novo, limiting the deference given to agency interpretations of statutes.
Agencies are required to establish a framework for assessing the effectiveness and costs of major rules periodically (at least every 10 years).
Introduced
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_3525
Sponsor: Rep. Van Duyne, Beth [R-TX-24]
Process start date: 2025-05-20