Administrative Procedure Act: notice of proposed action.
The enactment of AB 2214 is expected to significantly improve the accountability and responsiveness of state agencies to the public. By mandating that relevant documentation be readily available online, it increases the likelihood that stakeholders, including individuals and organizations potentially affected by such regulations, will be informed and able to participate in the regulatory process. The shift towards digital transparency may further promote public engagement and feedback, leading to more representative regulatory outcomes.
Assembly Bill No. 2214, introduced by Assembly Member Carrillo, seeks to amend Section 11346.2 of the Government Code, which pertains to the procedures for adopting and amending administrative regulations by state agencies under the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). The bill aims to enhance transparency and public access by requiring state agencies to post documents related to proposed regulatory actions conspicuously on their websites within 24 hours of submission to the Office of Administrative Law, rather than merely making them available upon request. This amendment intends to provide easier access for the public to understand regulatory changes as they occur.
Despite the positive intent of enhancing transparency, there may be concerns regarding the operational implications for state agencies. Critics could argue that the requirement to update websites rapidly may place additional burdens on state resources, particularly for smaller agencies lacking sufficient technological infrastructure. Debates might arise over balancing the demand for openness with the practicality of compliance costs and the potential for information overload, which might overwhelm both agencies and the public.