Federal Register
Definition
The Federal Register is the official daily publication of the United States government for rules, proposed rules, and notices of Federal agencies and organizations, as well as Executive orders and other presidential documents. Established by the Federal Register Act in 1935, it serves as a critical part of the framework for transparency and rulemaking procedures.
Examples
- Environmental Regulations: An update on air quality standards issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
- Financial Guidelines: New rules issued by the Treasury Department regarding tax filings.
- Housing Policies: The Housing and Urban Development department outlining changes to federal housing policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Federal Register used for?
The Federal Register serves as a means of notifying the public of government rules and allowing for public comment periods when appropriate.
How often is the Federal Register published?
The Federal Register is published every business day by the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO).
Where can I access the Federal Register?
The Federal Register can be accessed online via the Federal Register website and through the U.S. Government Publishing Office.
Who publishes the Federal Register?
The Office of the Federal Register within the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) compiles and organizes the Federal Register.
Related Terms
- Code of Federal Regulations (CFR): A codification of the general and permanent rules published in the Federal Register by the departments and agencies of the Federal Government.
- Unified Agenda: A government publication that provides information about regulations that Federal agencies plan to issue in the near and long term.
- Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM): A public notice issued by law when a United States government agency wishes to add, remove, or change a rule or regulation as part of the rulemaking process.
Online Resources
- The Federal Register (Office Website)
- National Archives Federal Register
- Government Publishing Office (GPO)
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “A Guide to Federal Rulemaking” by The Administrative Conference of the United States
- “Administrative Law and Process in a Nutshell” by Ernest Gellhorn and Ronald M. Levin
- “Federal Administrative Law” by Gary Lawson
- “Rulemaking: How Government Agencies Write Law and Make Policy” by Cornelius M. Kerwin and Scott R. Furlong
Fundamentals of the Federal Register: Government Publications Basics Quiz
### What is the primary purpose of the Federal Register?
- [ ] To publish scientific research papers.
- [ ] To serve as a daily newspaper.
- [x] To document the rules, proposed rules, and notices of Federal agencies.
- [ ] To provide personal announcements.
> **Explanation:** The Federal Register is designed to be the official documentation of the rules, proposed rules, and notices of Federal agencies, to ensure transparency and public awareness.
### How frequently is the Federal Register published?
- [x] Daily
- [ ] Weekly
- [ ] Monthly
- [ ] Yearly
> **Explanation:** The Federal Register is published every business day by the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO).
### Which agency is responsible for compiling and organizing the Federal Register?
- [ ] Environmental Protection Agency
- [ ] Treasury Department
- [x] Office of the Federal Register within the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)
- [ ] Housing and Urban Development
> **Explanation:** The Office of the Federal Register within NARA is responsible for compiling and organizing the Federal Register.
### Can the public access the Federal Register online?
- [x] Yes
- [ ] No
> **Explanation:** Yes, the Federal Register can be accessed online via [Federal Register](https://www.federalregister.gov/) and the [U.S. Government Publishing Office](https://www.gpo.gov/).
### What type of information does the Federal Register NOT include?
- [ ] Proposals for public comment
- [ ] Notices of Federal agencies
- [ ] Presidential documents
- [x] Personal financial records
> **Explanation:** The Federal Register includes rules, proposed rules, notices, and presidential documents but does not include personal financial records.
### Which law established the Federal Register?
- [ ] The Clean Air Act
- [ ] The Freedom of Information Act
- [x] The Federal Register Act
- [ ] The Administrative Procedure Act
> **Explanation:** The Federal Register was established by the Federal Register Act in 1935.
### What is the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)?
- [ ] A daily publication of local laws
- [ ] A set of state regulations
- [x] A codification of the general and permanent rules published in the Federal Register
- [ ] A list of historical documents
> **Explanation:** The CFR is a codification of the general and permanent rules published in the Federal Register by the federal government departments and agencies.
### What must agencies issue if they want to change or establish a new regulation?
- [ ] A public announcement
- [x] A Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM)
- [ ] A citizen petition
- [ ] A congressional report
> **Explanation:** Agencies issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) when they want to change or establish a new regulation as part of the rulemaking process.
### Where are final rules published after being reviewed and approved?
- [ ] In local newspapers
- [ ] In the U.S. Code
- [x] In the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)
- [ ] Only on agency websites
> **Explanation:** Final rules are published in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) after being reviewed and approved.
### What is an Executive Order?
- [ ] A type of agency rule
- [x] A directive issued by the President
- [ ] A regulatory reform
- [ ] A judicial ruling
> **Explanation:** An Executive Order is a directive issued by the President and often published in the Federal Register.
Thank you for exploring the details and essentials of the Federal Register and challenging yourself with our quiz. Continue to expand your understanding of government publications and their importance in regulatory processes!
