S.Res.198 - Expressing the sense of the Senate that the Secretary of Health and Human Services should withdraw a reduction in public notice and comment opportunities. (119th Congress)
Summary
Senate Resolution 198 expresses the Senate's disapproval of a decision by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to reduce public notice and comment opportunities related to rulemaking. The resolution urges the Secretary to withdraw a notice published in the Federal Register that would curtail these opportunities. The resolution emphasizes the importance of public participation in regulatory processes, citing its role in ensuring fair and sound policy formulation.
Expected Effects
If the Secretary of HHS complies with the resolution, the public would retain existing opportunities to provide input on proposed regulations. Conversely, if the Secretary does not comply, the reduced notice and comment periods would go into effect. This could lead to regulations being implemented with less public scrutiny.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency in HHS rulemaking.
- Greater opportunity for public input on healthcare regulations.
- Potential for more informed and balanced regulatory outcomes.
- Strengthening of democratic processes in government.
- Mitigation of arbitrary or harmful regulations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential delays in implementing new regulations due to extended comment periods.
- Increased administrative burden on HHS to manage public comments.
- Possibility of regulations being influenced by special interest groups.
- Risk of public comments being used to obstruct or delay necessary regulatory changes.
- No direct disadvantages if the resolution simply maintains the status quo.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the spirit of the First Amendment, which protects the right of the people to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. While the Administrative Procedure Act is not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution, the resolution's emphasis on public participation in rulemaking supports the broader principles of government transparency and accountability. The resolution does not appear to violate any specific constitutional provision.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).