Lankford Subcommittee Analyzes Latest Federal Agency Retrospective Review Process

Press Release

The Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Regulatory Affairs and Federal Management, under the chairmanship of Senator James Lankford (R-OK), held a hearing today to examine federal agencies' current retrospective review efforts, in response to President Obama's Executive Orders 13563 and 13610. Specifically, the Executive Orders directed agencies to develop and submit to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) plans for periodic review of existing significant regulations to determine whether they should be modified, streamlined, expanded, or repealed.

The Subcommittee discussed the overall number of regulations reviewed and the results of those reviews, as well as how agencies have prioritized their reviews. They also examined any possible barriers encountered during the process, as well as, best practices to solicit public comment on reviews. Possible legislation to strengthen the retrospective review process was also discussed.

"It is essential for the federal government to clear out old rules and restrictions that are burdensome and ineffective," said Lankford. "The government works for the American people, not the other way around. Changing industry circumstances and technological improvements make out-of-date regulations difficult for small businesses to grow and create jobs, and they can make products too expensive for families. Congress must strengthen regulatory reviews to ensure that regulations maintain basic common sense, instead of intensify bureaucratic processes."

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