What is the key outcome of an informal notice and comment rulemaking process?

The key outcome of an informal notice and comment rulemaking process is that it fosters stakeholder input before rule decisions. This process is fundamental to administrative law as it encourages transparency and public participation in the regulatory process. When regulatory agencies propose new rules, they issue notices that allow interested parties—including individuals, businesses, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders—to provide their comments or feedback. This engagement helps the agency to gather diverse perspectives and important information that can lead to more informed and effective regulations.

This participatory approach is significant because it can identify potential issues or consequences of proposed regulations that the agency may not have initially considered. By taking into account the views and experiences of stakeholders, agencies can enhance the legitimacy of their rules and ensure that they address real-world needs and concerns effectively.

The other choices are not aligned with the objectives of the informal notice and comment process. For example, the process does not establish rules without public involvement; rather, it is designed to promote such involvement. Additionally, while the informal process may streamline certain aspects, it does not completely eliminate the need for formal reviews; agencies often still undergo review processes as part of their rulemaking. Lastly, the informal notice and comment rulemaking is not exclusively for legislative review; it serves across various areas of