Statecraft cover image

Statecraft

How OIRA Works

Oct 11, 2024
In this engaging discussion, John D. Graham, former OIRA Administrator under George W. Bush and a regulatory policy expert, sheds light on the inner workings of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs. He shares insights on the evolution of cost-benefit analysis, the agencies that often resist OIRA, and the persistent challenge of command and control regulations. Graham also compares his regulatory philosophies with Dick Cheney's and highlights the intriguing dynamics of navigating regulatory politics within the government.
56:52

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • OIRA's establishment marked a significant shift in federal regulatory oversight, requiring agencies to seek approval before implementing major regulations.
  • The evolution of cost-benefit analysis within OIRA has enhanced the scrutiny of regulations, although challenges in thorough assessments still exist.

Deep dives

Understanding the Role of OIRA

The Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) plays a crucial role in the regulatory process by reviewing significant regulations proposed by federal agencies. Agencies like the FDA may request regulations on various issues, such as labeling requirements for food products, which OIRA can either approve or suggest changes to. For instance, OIRA collaborated with the FDA to add trans fat content to food labels, demonstrating how it influences regulatory decisions. OIRA does not directly allocate federal funds; instead, it ensures that regulatory actions align with broader government priorities and standards.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode