Regulatory Accountability Act

This plan changes how federal agencies write big rules. Agencies must clearly explain the problem, their legal authority, and real options (not just “do it or don’t”), including things like using performance goals or transparency instead of one-size-fits-all mandates. For major rules, they must compare costs and benefits of alternatives, share the data they rely on, and give the public more time to comment—at least 90 days for major rules, plus 30 days to respond to others’ comments. Agencies also can’t lobby the public for or against their own proposed rules during this time, and any private meetings with stakeholders must be disclosed.

Before finishing a major rule, an agency should pick the option that gives the most net benefit, unless the oversight office approves a different choice for reasons like civil rights or hard-to-measure impacts. Agencies must also build a plan to measure results and check back within 10 years to see if the rule still works, publishing those findings online. Guidance documents must say they are not legally binding and be easy to find on one website. The law doesn’t change rules already finished or in progress when it takes effect.

• Who is affected: Federal agencies; people, businesses, and communities that follow federal rules and want to comment on them.
• What changes:
  • Clearer problem statements, legal authority, and real alternatives.
  • Public access to studies and models used.
  • Longer, two-step comment periods for major rules; disclosure of private talks.
  • Pick the alternative with the greatest net benefits unless approved otherwise.
  • Ongoing review of major rules within 10 years, with results posted.
  • Guidance must state it’s not binding and be easy to find online.
• When:
  • Major-rule assessment framework included with proposed or final rules starting 180 days after enactment. Reviews must occur within 10 years.
  • Does not apply to rules already pending or completed at enactment.
  • Interim final rules expire if not finalized, replaced, or withdrawn within 180 days.