Administrative Procedures Act; amend to require proposed agency rules to be approved by the State Auditor.
Impact
The impact of HB132 is significant as it alters the existing processes governing how agency rules are implemented in Mississippi. By requiring auditor approval before rules can take effect, the bill enhances accountability but may also slow down the regulatory process. Supporters argue that this measure protects the public by preventing hasty regulations that could have widespread negative consequences. However, it also raises concerns about potential delays in implementing necessary rules that could address urgent matters related to public welfare.
Summary
House Bill 132 seeks to amend sections of the Mississippi Code related to the administrative procedures governing agency regulations. Specifically, it mandates that no agency rule or regulation impacting the general public can take effect until it has been approved by the State Auditor or their designee. This change imposes a new layer of oversight on agency rule-making, emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency in the regulatory process. The bill specifies criteria that the State Auditor must consider when deciding whether to approve a proposed rule, aiming to ensure that public health, safety, and welfare are adequately addressed in regulatory decisions.
Contention
Points of contention surrounding HB132 primarily revolve around the balance between necessary regulatory oversight and the efficiency of the rule-making process. Proponents of the bill assert that the enhanced scrutiny from the State Auditor is essential for ensuring the public interest is prioritized in governmental decision-making. Opponents, however, may argue that the requirement for auditor approval could lead to bureaucratic delays, hindering agencies from promptly addressing critical public needs. The bill's success may hinge on finding a compromise that preserves both public protection and timely regulatory action.