A Condensed Guide to the Regulatory Flexibility Act
RFA Basics
Learn how the RFA gives small entities a voice in federal rulemaking in our guide.
Why It Matters to You
Small businesses are the backbone of the U.S. economy, but federal regulations can hit them harder than large firms. The Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA), strengthened by Executive Order 13272, ensures that federal agencies recognize that difference. This primer equips business owners, policymakers, and agency staff with the essential tools to understand how the RFA works, and how it helps prevent “one-size-fits-all” rules from overwhelming small enterprises.
How the RFA Works
IRFA » Public Comment » FRFA » Final Rule » Judicial Review
Frequently Asked Questions
The Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) is a U.S. federal law enacted in 1980 that aims to minimize the regulatory burden placed on small businesses by federal agencies. For a more in-depth look into the RFA, visit our RFA page to learn more.
You can challenge regulations through the Office of Advocacy by providing feedback, participating in roundtables, and utilizing the Red Tape Hotline. The Office of Advocacy also assists with regulatory flexibility analysis and can help small businesses challenge rules through judicial review if they are significantly impacted.
Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (IRFA) — Identifies small-entity impact, considers alternatives.
Public Comment — Agency solicits public comment.
Final Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (FRFA) — Weighs feedback, justifies final choices.
Final Rule — The agency, after considering public comments on a proposed rule (NPRM), establishes the final regulatory language, including any necessary revisions and their effective date. It also includes a final regulatory flexibility analysis (FRFA) if an initial analysis was required.
Judicial Review — Small businesses can sue under SBREFA for noncompliance.
Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (SBREFA)
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM)