Relative to the joint legislative committee on administrative rules.
If enacted, SB358 will significantly influence the way New Hampshire handles administrative rules through the JLCAR. By increasing the committee's size and introducing divisions, the process of reviewing rules can become more manageable and structured. The bill outlines that final objections to agency rules can only be made by the full committee, ensuring a cohesive approach in legislative action against proposed regulations. This structured process potentially strengthens legislative oversight, reducing the chances of unilateral decision-making by agencies.
Senate Bill 358, introduced in New Hampshire, aims to modify the structure and function of the Joint Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules (JLCAR). This bill proposes to increase the membership of the JLCAR from 10 to 15 members and from 10 to 15 alternate members, thus diversifying representation. Additionally, the bill establishes three divisions within the committee, each with an equal number of senators and representatives to facilitate effective legislative oversight over administrative rules proposed by agencies. The intent of these changes is to enhance the committee's ability to manage administrative regulations more effectively and efficiently.
There may be contention surrounding the bill's provisions for how objections to agency rules are handled. Critics might argue that requiring the entire committee to address final objections could delay the response to potentially problematic regulations, impacting timely governance. Proponents of the bill, however, contend that this approach fosters comprehensive deliberation and prevents any individual members from acting unilaterally, thereby maintaining checks and balances in the legislative process. The introduction of specific timelines for the review and objection process might also lead to debates regarding efficiency versus thoroughness in administrative oversight.