The White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) reviewed a total of 43 significant regulatory actions issued by federal agencies in April 2020. The agency approved eight rules without changes and approved the intent of 31 rules while recommending changes to their content. Agencies withdrew two rules from the review process. One rule was subject to a statutory or judicial deadline while another was classified as an emergency rule.

OIRA reviewed 44 significant regulatory actions in April 2019, 32 significant regulatory actions in April 2018, and seven significant regulatory action in April 2017. During the Obama administration from 2009-2016, OIRA reviewed an average of 47 significant regulatory actions each April.

OIRA has reviewed a total of 160 significant rules so far in 2020. The agency reviewed a total of 475 significant rules in 2019, 355 significant rules in 2018, and 237 significant rules in 2017.

As of May 1, 2020, OIRA’s website listed 123 regulatory actions under review.

OIRA is responsible for reviewing and coordinating what it deems to be all significant regulatory actions made by federal agencies, with the exception of independent federal agencies. Significant regulatory actions include agency rules that have had or may have a large impact on the economy, environment, public health, or state and local governments and communities. These regulatory actions may also conflict with other regulations or with the priorities of the president.

Every month, Ballotpedia compiles information about regulatory reviews conducted by OIRA. To view this project, click on the “learn more” button below.