FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 1, 2025
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) today introduced the Zero-Based Regulations Act to cut red tape and protect taxpayer dollars by requiring annual zero-based reviews of all federal regulations.
“Idahoans are fed up with heavy-handed federal regulations stifling our freedoms,” said Risch. “The Zero-Based Regulations Act forces federal agencies to cut the overreaching, unnecessary rules that no longer serve the people and reduce the regulatory burden on hardworking Americans.”
The Zero-Based Regulations Act would:
- Implement a “zero-based” standard where repealing regulations is the default;
- Require federal agencies to review 20% of their regulations annually and the entire regulatory structure every five years;
- Require agencies to justify, simplify, and reduce the cost of any rule by at least 30% to be reauthorized; and
- Prohibit agencies from implementing new rules unless certain conditions are met.
For too long, unelected bureaucrats have issued excessive and overreaching rules, ballooning the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations to nearly 200,000 pages. This unnecessary red tape stifles innovation, impedes economic growth, and inflicts significant regulatory burdens on everyday Americans and businesses.
The Zero-Based Regulations Act is modeled after the State of Idaho’s successful zero-based regulation effort, spearheaded by Governor Brad Little and made permanent in 2023. Since 2019, Idaho has cut or simplified 95% of its regulations, earning the title of least regulated state in the country for six years.
“Idaho leads the nation in cutting red tape, and President Trump’s return to the White House is bringing a renewed focus on getting the federal government to follow Idaho’s lead. I appreciate Senator Risch’s efforts to streamline federal regulations to unleash unlimited potential for America’s economy, and Idaho stands ready to help,” said Little.
About Jim Risch
Jim Risch proudly represents the people of Idaho in the United States Senate. He currently chairs the Foreign Relations Committee and sits on the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Risch previously served as Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and State Senator. For the latest press releases and constituent services visit risch.senate.gov.
