Administrative Procedures
The bill drastically alters the relationship between state agencies and the legislature regarding the rule-making process. By requiring legislative approval for final rules, agencies will need to ensure their proposals are in line with legislative priorities and receive bipartisan support. Additionally, it introduces a timeline that mandates rules to be filed within 180 days after the comment period and aims to prevent any rule from taking effect until it has been filed properly, creating an environment where the legislature has a direct hand in regulatory measures.
House Bill 5187 proposes amendments to the administrative procedures governing how state agencies file final rules. Specifically, the bill mandates that all final rules must receive approval from the General Assembly before becoming effective, a significant shift from previous procedures allowing agencies more autonomy in rule-making. Introduced by Representatives Corvese, Azzinaro, and Phillips on January 19, 2023, this bill aims to enhance oversight and accountability in how rules are adopted and implemented by various state agencies.
Despite its goal of improving checks and balances, HB 5187 is likely to face contention about its implications for efficiency and responsiveness in agency operations. Opponents may argue that legislative approval could lead to delays in critical rule implementation, especially in areas requiring prompt regulatory action. Supporters might contend that this approach strengthens public input and accountability, ensuring that rules reflect both expert agency judgment and public interest.