Missouri House Bill HB2554

Missouri 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/24
• Refer: 5/17/24

Caption

Requires the general assembly to approve proposed administrative rules

Impact

The statute, if enacted, would significantly alter the current administrative practices by adding an additional layer of scrutiny to the rule-making process. Currently, agencies can adopt rules within the framework set by laws without legislative consent. HB2554 would require agencies to present proposed rules for approval, thereby potentially slowing down the implementation of new regulations and requiring agencies to justify their regulatory decisions to lawmakers. Proponents argue that this added oversight will prevent arbitrary rule-making and protect citizens from potentially overreaching regulations.

Summary

House Bill 2554 seeks to establish a requirement for the general assembly to approve any proposed administrative rules before they can be implemented. This legislation aims to enhance oversight of the administrative rule-making process, ensuring that legislative bodies maintain authority over significant regulatory actions taken by state agencies. By making legislative approval a prerequisite, the bill intends to increase accountability and ensure that administrative rules align with the public interest and legislative intent.

Contention

The discussions surrounding HB2554 indicate significant points of contention. Supporters, primarily from the general assembly, assert that the bill is necessary to ensure regulations are not only legally sound but also that they reflect the will of the electorate. Conversely, opponents argue that this requirement could impede timely regulatory responses to emerging issues, leading to inefficiencies within government operations. Some critics believe that the bill could be used as a political tool to undermine agencies' autonomy and delay essential regulatory reforms.