(DES MOINES) - Gov. Terry E. Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds today announced the launch of a new state Website that makes the administrative rules process more open and transparent. The site, rules.iowa.gov, allows Iowans to view administrative rules that are open for comment, rules that are receiving higher views than others, comment on rules online, find contact information for each specific rule, learn how much longer the comment period is open and inquire about the administrative rule process.
"Public participation in forming administrative rules helps Iowa reform burdensome rules and prevents overregulation and government red tape thus encouraging efficiency, economic growth and job creation," said Branstad. "We are pleased to launch Rules.Iowa.gov today to give Iowans greater access to their government and the ability to weigh-in on proposed rules conveniently and effectively at any time during the rule process."
The new Website streamlines a process that currently requires Iowans interested in commenting on proposed rules to navigate through multiple Webpages. Currently, to view proposed rules online, Iowans must navigate to the Legislature Website, then to the Iowa Law and Rules Webpage, then to the Iowa Administrative Rules Webpage to find the Rules Tracker page. Once there, Iowans can view a rule, but can't comment the rule. Rules.Iowa.Gov creates a one-stop shop for viewing rules and commenting on proposed rules they're interested in.
"Since taking office, Governor Branstad and I have continuously worked to make government more open and transparent," said Reynolds. "Visiting all 99 Iowa counties each year, live-streaming our press conferences, using social media tools and taking questions via 'Ask the Gov.', are great tools for interacting with Iowans. This new website is accessible 24/7 for Iowans to voice their opinion on government rules and brings yet another element of transparency to government."
The purpose of this website is to allow members of the public the opportunity to comment on administrative rules in the notice process. Members of the public have 20 days to comment on a rule from the date of publication. Individuals may comment on all administrative rules open for comment on the website.
The Website was built and is maintained by the Office of the Chief Information Officer.
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