Administrative Procedure Act
The Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. § 500 et seq.) governs:
- public information provided by federal agencies on their rules, forms, adjudicative decisions, and procedures
- open meetings
- the rulemaking process
It explicitly states that agencies
shall give interested persons an opportunity to participate in the rule making through submission of written data, views, or arguments . . . .
Online Sources
Traditionally, people submitted comments to proposals by mailing letters to the specific agency addresses provided in Federal Register notices. Now, agencies also solicit and accept comments by email and through the Internet.
- Regulations.govProposed rules and regulations from federal agencies that are open for public comment.
How to Use Regulations.gov
FAQs
The site also includes:
- frequently asked questions
- a glossary of terms
- instructions for common tasks like submitting and finding comments
- Notice & Comment.com"[D]esigned to enhance the interaction between the public and all levels of government." Offers public notices and opportunities to comment, information on finding comments submitted by others, customized email alerts, a mobile app, and tips on writing effective comments. Partners with Regulations.gov. Includes federal and selected court, municipal, special districts, and state sources.