The Federal Register is the official journal of the federal government of the United States that contains government agency rules, proposed rules, and public notices. It is a daily publication that serves as a critical means of communication between the U.S. government and the public, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Importance and Purpose
Daily Publication
The Federal Register is published every federal business day by the Office of the Federal Register (OFR) within the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). It includes:
- Rules and Regulations: Administratively binding regulations issued by governmental agencies.
- Proposed Rules: Notices of proposed regulatory changes and requests for comments by the public.
- Notices: Announcements of meetings, grant opportunities, and other relevant governmental communications.
Promulgation Process
The publication of regulations in the Federal Register is an essential step in the rule-making process. It involves:
- Drafting: Agency drafts the rule.
- OMB Review: Reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for compliance with administration policies.
- Public Comment: Published in the Federal Register to solicit comments from the public.
- Final Rule: Consideration of comments, final drafting, and subsequent publication in the Federal Register with an effective date.
Historical Context
The Federal Register was created by the Federal Register Act of 1935. This act was necessitated by the rise in administrative regulation and the need for a centralized, official repository of governmental documentation.
Applicability and Scope
Governmental Agencies
Agencies that frequently publish in the Federal Register include:
- Department of the Treasury (Treasury Department).
- Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Public Access and Uses
The Federal Register is accessible to the public. Interested parties include:
- Legal professionals for compliance and advisory.
- Businesses and industries impacted by federal regulations.
- Public advocacy groups tracking government actions affecting their interests.
- Researchers and academics examining regulatory impact and history.
Related Terms
- Code of Federal Regulations (CFR): The codification of the general and permanent rules published in the Federal Register.
- Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA): Legislation governing the creation and management of federal advisory committees, often noted in the Federal Register.
- Regulatory Flexibility Act: Requires analysis of the impact of proposed regulations on small entities, often discussed in the Federal Register.
FAQs
What is the role of the Office of the Federal Register (OFR)?
How do public comments influence the final rule?
Where can I access the Federal Register?
References
- National Archives and Records Administration. (n.d.). Federal Register. Retrieved from NARA Official Website
- United States Government Publishing Office. (n.d.). About the Federal Register. Retrieved from GPO Website
Summary
The Federal Register is a critical publication that supports the transparency and effective administration of U.S. governmental regulations. It facilitates public participation in the rule-making process, ensures governmental accountability, and serves as an official record of federal regulations and notices. By being aware of its publication and contents, stakeholders can better navigate and comply with regulatory requirements.
