What are Public Comment Periods? Here's Why You Should Know About Them
If you want to stand up against harmful actions taken by the Trump administration, public comments are a way for everyone to directly influence agency policies.
Every day, government agencies make decisions that affect our lives. From environmental protections to transportation and infrastructure, health insurance and food safety, housing, and even access to the internet, nearly everyone is impacted by agency policies. But did you know that before many of these decisions are finalized, the public has an opportunity to weigh in on issues affecting them and their communities? This is known as a public comment period.
Unfortunately, the Trump administration is taking steps to keep people from participating in this process, thwarting a key component of democratic decision making. Therefore, it’s important that everyone is aware of opportunities to comment on proposed federal agency rules that impact their lives.
What is a Public Comment Period?
When a federal agency proposes a new rule or regulation, it’s usually required by law to publish the proposal and open a window of time for public feedback. The time frame for submitting these comments usually varies, but will be announced through the Federal Register for federal agencies, as well as other government websites. This is called a public comment period, a powerful — yet often underused — tool for civic engagement.
Importantly, submitting a public comment is more than a symbolic gesture. Agencies are legally required to consider all substantive comments before finalizing a rule. While this does not mean every comment will lead to change, agencies must consider thoughtful, evidence-based feedback they receive.
Why Do Public Comment Periods Matter?
Public comments are one of the few direct ways that everyday citizens can influence government rules before they become law. These comment periods make the federal government more transparent by requiring agencies to explain their decisions and respond to concerns. Public comments can also improve outcomes by allowing agencies to identify unintended consequences of decisions they’re considering or offer practical alternatives based on community feedback.
Wondering How to Submit a Public Comment?
Anyone can submit public comments on issues that are important to them and their communities — you don’t have to be a lawyer or politician to make your voice heard. Public comment periods from federal agencies like the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services or the Department of Housing and Urban Development will be announced on the Federal Register. You can check the register often to search for issues relevant to you and your communities.
What Do I Say in a Public Comment?
Here are a few tips for writing a strong public comment:
Make a clear position by stating your opinion (e.g., I support… or I oppose…) early in the comment and explain why.
Share your personal story — grounded in evidence and facts — because it’s a powerful advocacy tool that shows you have lived experience with the issue the agency is considering. It also helps create a factual record of how various policies and practices may impact people.
Be aware of deadlines, because once a comment period closes, you might not have another opportunity to provide your input on a proposed decision or rule.
Just like joining a peaceful protest or sharing viral social media posts, submitting public comments is a crucial part of holding our government accountable. By taking a few minutes to speak up and share your experiences and opinions, you are engaging in a vital democratic process with important consequences. You can also make sure members of your community are aware of this tool so that everyone’s voice is heard.
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