Bill 118 HR 9032, also known as the Enhanced Regulatory Flexibility Assessment Act, aims to improve the regulatory process by requiring federal agencies to conduct a more thorough analysis of the potential impact of proposed regulations on small businesses. The bill specifically focuses on the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA), which currently requires agencies to assess the impact of regulations on small entities, but often falls short in providing a comprehensive analysis.
Under the Enhanced Regulatory Flexibility Assessment Act, agencies would be required to consider a wider range of factors when assessing the impact of regulations on small businesses, including the cumulative effects of multiple regulations, the potential for job creation or loss, and the impact on innovation and competition. Additionally, agencies would be required to consult with small businesses and other stakeholders during the rulemaking process to ensure that their concerns are taken into account.
The bill also includes provisions to improve the transparency of the regulatory process, such as requiring agencies to publish their regulatory flexibility analyses online and provide opportunities for public comment. This would allow small businesses and other stakeholders to provide feedback on proposed regulations and ensure that their voices are heard.
Overall, the Enhanced Regulatory Flexibility Assessment Act seeks to enhance the effectiveness of the RFA and ensure that small businesses are not disproportionately burdened by federal regulations. By requiring agencies to conduct more thorough assessments and engage with stakeholders throughout the rulemaking process, the bill aims to promote a more transparent and inclusive regulatory process that takes into account the needs and concerns of small businesses.