Rulemaking is the term used when a federal government agency creates, modifies, or deletes rules published in the Code of Federal Regulations (also known as the CFR). Rules are government agency statements that either:

  • Implement, explain or prescribe law or policy
  • Describe an agency's organization, procedure, or practice requirements

Regulatory Reform Successes

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) is taking meaningful steps to reduce regulatory, paperwork and reporting burdens on the America’s workers and job creators.

The Department has been a leader in the federal government in producing regulatory cost savings. During fiscal years 2017-2019, the Department of Labor delivered more than $11.3 billion in regulatory cost savings for America’s job creators and workers

In fiscal year 2019, the Department of Labor accomplished 11 deregulatory actions totaling $7.96 billion in regulatory cost savings – the second most among all federal agencies.

In fiscal year 2018, the Department of Labor accomplished 12 deregulatory actions totaling $3.28 billion in regulatory cost savings – the second most among all federal agencies.

Regulatory Agenda

On November 20, 2019, the Department's fall 2019 regulatory agenda was published. The regulatory agenda is a listing of all the regulations the Department of Labor expects to have under active consideration for promulgation, proposal, or review during the next 6- to 12-months.

Regulations Currently Open for Comment

As part of the rulemaking process, the American public has the opportunity to comment on proposed rules and other regulatory actions. See the Department’s list of regulations currently open for comment.

Rulemaking and Regulations Resources

Below are further resources that can help you find and understand the Department’s rulemaking activities and regulations:

Executive Orders and Office of Management and Budget Guidance