Make your voice heard with a public comment
You can use your voice to make a public comment about new laws. Exercise your right to be heard.
When a federal agency proposes a new regulation, it must ask for comments from the public. Anyone can make comments in support of or against a new regulation or rule before it becomes a law. You do not have to be a US citizen.
It is easy to make a public comment:
- From the Federal Register page. The Federal Register is where the proposed laws are published for us to read. There is a field at the top that says « Submit a formal comment. » You can type your comment directly in there.
- On Regulations.gov, the government website. You can search for rules on the home page using the docket ID or the regulation identifier number (RIN). Go to the proposed rule and select « Comment now. »
- By mail. If you cannot submit your comment online, look for the « For Further Information Contact » information on the regulations.gov page There will be a name with a mailing address or a phone number to call.
Make an effective comment
Read the US government’s tips for submitting effective comments.
What to say
Say what you believe and give a good reason for why you believe it.
- State your belief
You may think, for example, that a new rule goes against the human rights and justice that all Americans believe in.
- Give your reason
Try to use your own words, but it is okay to use suggested words from advocacy organizations if they express what you believe.
