The bill aims to streamline the process for adopting rules and regulations by state agencies, particularly focusing on technical amendments that do not require new rulemaking. It specifies that agencies are not obligated to initiate new rulemaking for nonsubstantive changes, such as correcting errors or updating cross-references. Additionally, the bill introduces a priority status for certain proposed rules, allowing them to be processed more quickly, and clarifies that the Department of Budget is not required to approve rules mandated by federal law. Key changes include the requirement for agencies to submit proposed rules to the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules and Regulations before presenting them to the legislature for ratification, and the need for public notice and input prior to submission.

Moreover, the bill revises the requirements for preparing environmental benefit statements and economic impact statements, mandating that agencies consult with other agencies and update these statements at the time of filing a rule. It establishes a clear process for rule approval, including public hearings and the necessity for a roll call vote from the governing body. The bill also stipulates that no rule can be adopted without a public meeting, and it requires legislative ratification for rules with significant implementation costs exceeding $1,000,000. Temporary rules and those mandated by federal law are exempt from these new provisions, and several existing statutes are repealed to enhance regulatory efficiency. The act will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 75-3504, 77-415, 77-416, 77-419, 77-420, 77-421, 77-437, 77-436, 77-441, 77-418
As Amended by Senate Committee: 75-3504, 77-415, 77-416, 77-419, 77-420, 77-421, 77-437, 77-436, 77-441, 77-418