Glossary
Rulemaking
The formal process US agencies use to write binding regulations, usually including a public comment period.
Under US law, federal agencies typically create binding rules through notice-and-comment rulemaking: they publish a proposed rule, invite public comments for a set period, consider them, and then issue a final rule with an explanation.
The process gives companies, experts, and the public a chance to influence rules and creates a record that courts can review. It can take months or years.
Agencies also issue guidance, requests for comment, and interim policies that are not final rules. A closed comment period means the agency is reviewing input, not that a rule has been adopted.
Read more: our explainer