Bill > H3891

This bill establishes a new framework for legislative oversight of regulatory actions in Massachusetts by creating a comprehensive process for reviewing and approving "major rules" proposed by state agencies. The bill defines a major rule as a regulation with an estimated economic impact exceeding $1 million over five years that could potentially harm economic growth or job creation. Before implementing such a rule, agencies must prepare an Economic Impact Statement (EIS) detailing the potential economic consequences and alternative regulatory approaches. The Legislature would then have the power to review, approve, or reject these major rules through a concurrent resolution within 90 days of submission, with any failure to act resulting in automatic disapproval. The bill also mandates public participation by requiring agencies to hold public hearings and make all proposed rules and impact statements publicly accessible online and in the State House library. Additionally, the legislation provides mechanisms for judicial review, allowing individuals adversely affected by a rule to challenge its validity, and requires agencies to submit annual reports to the Legislature about their rulemaking activities. Emergency rules can be implemented immediately but must still be submitted for legislative ratification within 30 days, ensuring a balance between administrative flexibility and legislative accountability.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3891