If enacted, HB3175 would significantly impact how federal regulations are managed, potentially increasing the efficiency of administrative operations by limiting the number of overlapping regulations. The bill seeks to mitigate the regulatory burden on businesses and other stakeholders by making it imperative for agencies to assess their existing rules in conjunction with new proposals. This could lead to a more streamlined regulatory framework that is easier for businesses to navigate, promoting compliance and potentially fostering economic growth.
Summary
House Bill 3175, titled the Regulation Reduction Act of 2023, aims to streamline the regulatory process by requiring federal agencies to repeal existing regulations before enacting new rules. The bill specifically mandates that an agency must repeal at least two existing rules related to a new rule, or three for major rules, ensuring that the costs of new regulations do not exceed the repealed ones. Furthermore, it imposes a requirement for these repeals to be documented in the Federal Register, promoting transparency in the regulatory process.
Contention
However, the bill has raised concerns among various stakeholders. Critics argue that the repeal mandate may hinder necessary regulations aimed at protecting public welfare and the environment. By requiring the repeal of existing rules, there is a worry that states and local governments might lose important regulatory protections, particularly in sensitive areas such as health, safety, and environmental standards. Balancing the need for regulatory efficiency with public safety and environmental protections will be a pivotal topic of discussion as the bill progresses through the legislative process.