Rules and Regulations

Once legislation is signed into law, it is sent to the appropriate government agency to write supplemental rules so the law can be implemented. These rules are called "regulations." Rules and regulations provide the means by which the government can administer a law. For this reason, they are sometimes also referred to as administrative law. Once a regulation is written and finalized, it is codified just like statutes and law. At the federal level, regulations are published in the Code of Federal Regulations. At the state level, they are published in the Administrative Code of the state.

Why are Regulations Important?

The process of rule making occurs at both the federal and state levels of government, and both are important to the practice of dietetics and to the persons who receive nutrition and food services. Often they define requirements for specific services and identify the qualified individual to deliver these services. Regulations can sometimes expound on the law and be a source of additional information and detail.

How do I Follow the Regulations?

ADA follows the federal rulemaking process daily. ADA affiliates follow state rulemaking. Generally, every state government publishes a register (often weekly) indicating what rules are open for public comment and what programs are being pursued.

ADA members should subscribe to On the Pulse as one way to find current information about Federal regulations. At the state level, members are encouraged to work with their state affiliate's Public Policy Panel and State Policy Representative.

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