The bill amends Section 42-35-4 of the General Laws in Chapter 42-35, which pertains to "Administrative Procedures." It introduces new requirements for the filing and effectiveness of final rules by agencies. Specifically, the bill mandates that no rule promulgated in accordance with this chapter shall become final unless it is approved by the General Assembly after the agency's rulemaking process is completed but prior to its filing with the Office of the Secretary of State. This approval must occur no later than December 31 of the year the rule is promulgated.

The bill also requires the Secretary of State to maintain a permanent register of all filed rules and concise explanatory statements. It outlines the process for filing final rules, including a standardized submission format and a timeline for filing after the public comment period. The Secretary of State is authorized to make minor non-substantive corrections to the rules. Generally, rules will become effective twenty days after filing, unless specified otherwise. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance oversight of agency rulemaking by involving the General Assembly in the approval process.

Statutes affected:
852: 42-35-4