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Information technology and public commenting on agency regulations

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  • Steven J. Balla
  • Benjamin M. Daniels

Abstract

In this research, we assess whether the number of public comments filed in response to proposed agency rules has dramatically increased as a result of the automation of the submission process. Specifically, we compare the volume of comment activity across two large sets of rules issued by the Department of Transportation, one that occurred before the launch of an agency‐wide electronic docket system and another that occurred after this launch in 1998. Our analysis shows that, contrary to expectations held by many researchers and practitioners, the overall levels and patterns of stakeholder behavior showed a remarkable degree of similarity across the two periods. This finding implies that public involvement in rulemaking is not likely to become vastly more prevalent in the information age, confounding both hopes of democratization of the process and fears of costly and harmful mass participation.

Suggested Citation

  • Steven J. Balla & Benjamin M. Daniels, 2007. "Information technology and public commenting on agency regulations," Regulation & Governance, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 1(1), pages 46-67, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:reggov:v:1:y:2007:i:1:p:46-67
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1748-5991.2007.00005.x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Coglianese, Cary, 2006. "Citizen Participation in Rulemaking: Past, Present, and Future," Working Paper Series rwp06-027, Harvard University, John F. Kennedy School of Government.
    2. Stuart Shulman, 2003. "An experiment in digital government at the United States National Organic Program," Agriculture and Human Values, Springer;The Agriculture, Food, & Human Values Society (AFHVS), vol. 20(3), pages 253-265, September.
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