As state lawmakers head to capitals across the country to begin legislative sessions, some are preparing to push for significant regulatory reform that would increase prosperity for everyday Americans.
The Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act (REINS) is designed to stop costly new regulations and curb the power of unelected bureaucrats.
And the country is ready for it.
Because of Americans for Prosperity’s leadership and the efforts of its dedicated activists, at least nine states are considering REINS Acts this year, in addition to the 12 states that already have a version on the books.
This growing momentum reflects clear public support for more accountable government and a winning reform strategy led by AFP.
State lawmakers are increasingly recognizing this momentum and acting by passing REINS Acts in their states — further pressuring the federal government to adopt similar legislation.
It’s not just about process and accountability. It’s about lower taxes and affordability for your family.
Unelected state agencies crank out regulations year after year, often with massive price tags attached. These rules can:
What’s worse is that bureaucrats don’t face voters.
If elected officials pass a bad law, the public can hold them accountable. But when agencies impose sweeping, overbearing regulations, everyday Americans have little recourse.
These rules are often approved on autopilot, taking effect without legislative action. Instead, they’re crafted and finalized by agencies with every incentive to regulate more — because more rules justify bigger agency budgets.
And these rules don’t come without consequences.
Take Ohio, for example, a state that will be considering REINS legislation this year.
According to the Mercatus Center, the Buckeye State is the sixth-most-regulated in the country, with almost 250,000 regulations on the books.
These regulations are estimated to result in 4,300 lost jobs annually, 305,000 additional Ohioans in poverty, and 7.35% higher prices.
When a new rule drops, businesses don’t have a choice. They must comply or face costly fines or penalties. That means hiring lawyers, bringing in consultants, and drowning in paperwork.
The unfortunate truth is that small businesses can’t afford to eat these costs. They either pass the cost to the consumer or close shop.
Regulatory costs are estimated at $2 trillion to $3 trillion, or at least 7% of America’s gross domestic product. What’s worse is that households pay about $16,000 annually to cover these regulatory costs, which account for 21% of household expenses.
These are real families and business owners facing impossible decisions due to overregulation.
At a time when families are already stretched thin, they can’t afford higher prices or a layoff.
The good news is that many states have already stepped in to alleviate part of the problem.
From early adopters like Florida and Wisconsin to newer wins in states like Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Utah, the REINS model is spreading — driven by AFP’s sustained advocacy across the states. Other states are making big steps, with major momentum in Georgia, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Tennessee, and others.
Hundreds of significant reforms have been passed across the states, the result of AFP’s long-term strategy and its unmatched grassroots army leading the way.
Different states use different models, but the idea is the same: If a rule is expensive and far-reaching, elected representatives should have to approve it.
Most forms of REINS legislation:
Many states are proving that regulatory reform works.
The REINS Act is a commonsense way to protect prosperity, curb bloated bureaucracy, and empower Americans to reignite the American Dream.
Now it’s time for other states — and Washington — to catch up.
Take 30 seconds and sign our letter to lawmakers urging them to support the REINS Act.
Learn more about AFP’s commitment to Make Government Work through a series of policy proposals.
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