The City Council of Chicago has introduced an ordinance to amend Chapter 2-8 of the Municipal Code by adding a new Article V, which outlines the process for City Council review of departmental rulemaking. The new article defines what constitutes a "rule" and excludes certain types of communications and directives that do not materially affect the public's rights or procedures. The purpose of the article is to ensure transparency and public participation in the rulemaking process, making rules clear and accessible to the public. It applies to all rules promulgated by City departments from the effective date of the article, including new rules and amendments or repeals of existing rules. However, if federal or state law requires a different procedure, that law will take precedence.

The ordinance specifies that before any rule can take effect, the department must submit a report to the City Council, Mayor, Corporation Counsel, Legislative Reference Bureau, and Council Office of Financial Analysis. This report must include a copy of the proposed rule, a statement of purpose, legal authority citation, and the proposed effective date. Aldermen can file a resolution to reject the proposed rule for various reasons, including economic impact and legal authority. If no resolution is passed at the subsequent City Council meeting, the rule becomes effective. The ordinance also allows for emergency rulemaking in cases of imminent peril to public health, safety, or welfare, loss of federal or state funding, or to comply with a judicial order. Emergency rules are effective for no longer than 90 days unless a non-emergency rule process is initiated. The ordinance will take effect 120 days after its passage.