Depriving the public of opportunities to comment on proposed rulemaking undermines transparency and accountability in the regulatory process. By rescinding the long-standing Richardson waiver, the Department of Health and Human Services is closing off a vital avenue for public engagement and expert input that can improve policymaking. This unilateral action disregards the Administrative Procedure Act's intent to foster public participation. Preserving the public comment period ensures regulations are thoroughly vetted and responsive to diverse stakeholder perspectives. Excluding this crucial step raises concerns about hastily advancing drastic changes without adequate scrutiny. Transparency and inclusiveness should be prioritized over expedience, especially on issues as consequential as healthcare, public health, and scientific research impacting all Americans. I urge you to strongly encourage Secretary Kennedy to reconsider this misguided policy. Reinstating opportunities for substantive public commentary will reinforce the principles of open government and reasoned decision-making that strengthen our democratic processes. Robust civic engagement only serves to enhance the credibility and effectiveness of federal rulemaking.
First sent on March 2, 2025 by People Who Value Science
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