The executive branch
final rule
The completed regulation an agency publishes after considering comments. It has the force of law once effective and is codified in the Code of Federal Regulations.
In full
A final rule includes the regulatory text plus a preamble explaining the agency's reasoning and its response to comments, which is often far longer than the rule itself and is where the legal fight is won or lost. Most final rules take effect at least 30 days after publication, and major rules must sit for 60 days under the Congressional Review Act before taking effect.
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A plain-language explanation for civic education, not legal advice. When in doubt, the official source named above controls.