Legal Definitions - notice-and-comment period

Definition: The notice-and-comment period is a time frame set by administrative agencies during which they publish a proposed regulation and receive public comments on it. The regulation cannot take effect until after this period expires.

Example: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposes a new regulation that would limit the amount of pollution that factories can emit into the air. The EPA must publish the proposed regulation and allow a notice-and-comment period before it can become effective. During this period, the public can submit comments on the proposed regulation, and the EPA must consider these comments before finalizing the regulation.

Explanation: The example illustrates how the notice-and-comment period works in practice. The EPA proposes a new regulation, but it cannot become effective until after the notice-and-comment period has ended. During this period, the public has the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed regulation, which the EPA must consider before finalizing it. This process ensures that the regulation reflects the concerns and interests of the public and is not arbitrary or capricious.