The bill amends the Administrative Procedures Act of 1969 by updating sections 39 and 45 and adding new sections 47a and 67c. It requires agencies to electronically file requests for rulemaking in a specified format that includes a statement identifying the rule as either a major or nonmajor rule. Agencies must not proceed with rule processing unless the request has been approved by the relevant office, which is now required to provide a written response addressing the request's appropriateness and legal basis. Additionally, the office must record all requests and make them publicly available. The bill also enhances the role of the legislative service bureau, mandating it to issue a certificate of approval within 30 business days if the proposed rule meets necessary criteria, and to return any proposed rule with identified errors to the agency for correction.

Moreover, the bill introduces a new provision for the rescission of rules, stating that any rule promulgated after the effective date of this act will be automatically rescinded after a specified number of years unless exempted by federal law or specific statutes. Agencies may request an extension for up to five years, contingent upon legislative approval, and must provide a cost-benefit analysis as part of their request. The bill emphasizes the need for comprehensive regulatory impact statements that assess the potential effects of proposed rules on small businesses and the public, ensuring that agencies consider the economic implications of their regulations while providing a structured approach to regulatory oversight.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 24.239, 24.245
As Passed by the House: 24.239, 24.245