GOOD Act

S. 252 — the GOOD Act (Guidance Out Of Darkness Act) — would require federal agencies to publicly post their guidance documents online. Guidance documents are agency statements that explain policy or interpret laws and regulations without carrying the force of law themselves; the bill defines them broadly to include memos, notices, bulletins, letters, blog posts, no-action letters, and even official speeches. Agencies would have to publish new guidance documents when issued, and post any existing guidance still in effect within 180 days of enactment, all at a single, centrally designated website, with a prominent link from each agency's own site organizing the documents into categories. Documents or information otherwise exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act would not have to be posted, and rescinded guidance would remain posted but marked as rescinded, including the date and any related court case number.

The bill affects federal agencies (which must compile and publish this material) and the Office of Management and Budget's Director (who must designate the central website within 90 days of enactment). Indirectly, it affects members of the public, businesses, and researchers seeking easier access to agency guidance.

The bill was introduced by Sen. Ron Johnson (R-WI) with several cosponsors on January 24, 2025, and referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. As of August 6, 2026, the committee ordered it reported favorably with an amendment in the nature of a substitute — meaning it's approved to advance with revised text. Next, it would go to the full Senate for consideration.

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