Ask a Librarian & FAQs

• The Rulemaking Process Overview provided by the DOT includes:

  • What is rulemaking?

  • What is a rule?

  • What is the agency’s authority to issue legislative rules?

  • How does an agency identify the need for a rulemaking?

  • How does an agency initially determine the best solution to a problem?

  • What are the legal requirements for the informal rulemaking process?

  • May an agency supplement the APA requirements?

  • What is the role of DOT, the President, and other executive branch agencies in the rulemaking process?

  • What is the role of Congress in the rulemaking process?

  • What is the role of the courts in the rulemaking process?

  • What actions do agencies take after they issue legislative rules that could affect regulated entities?

  • How does an agency determine whether its rules are working effectively?

  • How do I get information on, or notices about, rulemakings on which agencies are working?

  • How do I submit comments to DOT on proposed rules?

  • How do I prepare effective comments?

Questions? Contact The Office of the General Counsel:

Jonathan Dols

Deputy Assistant General Counsel

Office of Regulation

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE

Room W94-304

Washington, DC 20590

United States

Jonathan.Dols@dot.gov

Phone: 202-366-6828

Business Hours: 
8:30am-5:00pm ET, M-F