Relating to administrative law.
HB2692 proposes adjustments to existing statutes, specifically ORS 183.333, ORS 183.335, and ORS 183.355, and includes the repeal of ORS 183.336. One of the significant changes is that agencies must involve public input before adopting any permanent rule that could impose new requirements or increased costs for regulated persons. This shift aims to foster an environment where stakeholders can contribute to the rulemaking process, potentially leading to regulations that are more reflective of public needs and concerns.
House Bill 2692 aims to modify various aspects of administrative law in Oregon, particularly focusing on the rules governing agency actions. The bill addresses the procedures that state agencies must follow when proposing new rules or changes to existing rules, emphasizing the need for public involvement and advisory committees in the rulemaking process. The intent behind HB2692 is to enhance transparency and accountability in administrative rulemaking while ensuring that agencies adequately consider the potential impacts of their rules on the public and businesses.
The general sentiment surrounding HB2692 appears to be supportive of increased public involvement in the agency rulemaking process. Proponents argue that greater transparency and public input will lead to more effective and acceptable regulations. However, there may be concerns from certain quarters about the possible bureaucratic delays and complexities added by requiring more public engagement, which could hinder timely regulatory approvals.
One notable area of contention involves the requirement for fiscal impact statements that agencies must prepare when considering new or revised rules. Several stakeholders, particularly from the business community, may push back against what they perceive as excessive regulatory requirements that could complicate the rulemaking process. Balancing the need for sufficient public input and fiscal accountability while ensuring that rules can be implemented efficiently is likely to remain a point of discussion as HB2692 progresses.