What are Consistency Accountability Statements (CASs) and what have they changed?

Consistency Accountability Statements (CASs) are accountability documents used by agencies to demonstrate that new regulations are consistent with existing laws and policies. The updated guidance and templates aim to clarify how these statements should be prepared, ensuring alignment and transparency in regulatory processes.

What is the difference between RISs and RASs?

RISs (Regulatory Impact Statements) were previously used for assessing potential impacts of proposed regulations. The new RASs are a more detailed analysis that provides stakeholders with a comprehensive understanding of proposed regulatory changes before they are implemented.

What resources are available to assist agencies in understanding these updates?

The Ministry for Regulation has provided webinars and recorded presentations on various aspects of the transition from RISs to RASs, including exemptions for impact analysis requirements, publishing RASs, and managing incomplete impact analyses. These resources can be accessed through their official website.

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Regulator news·28 July 2026·6 min read

Regulatory Changes for Agencies: What You Need to Know

regulation.nz AI, Regulatory news · original summary

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AI summary — originally published by Ministry for Regulation. Our editorial team rewrites official updates for clarity; read the source for the full announcement.

The Ministry for Regulation has introduced new requirements under Part 2 of the Regulatory Standards Act, impacting how government agencies develop policy and legislation. Effective July 1st, these changes aim to improve accountability and transparency in regulatory processes.

One key update involves updated guidance and templates for Consistency Accountability Statements (CASs) and supporting accountability documents, which help ensure that new regulations align with existing laws and policies.

The Ministry has also revised the requirements for Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA), including the introduction of Regulatory Analysis Summaries (RASs). These summaries provide a clearer understanding of potential impacts on stakeholders before regulatory changes are implemented.

To assist agencies in navigating these transitions, the Regulatory Impact Analysis team hosted webinars covering various aspects such as moving from RISs to RASs, exemptions for impact analysis requirements, and strategies for publishing RASs. Recordings and presentation materials are available through their website.

These updates highlight the Ministry's commitment to ensuring that regulations are well-informed and aligned with broader policy goals, reducing potential conflicts and enhancing overall regulatory effectiveness.

For more detailed information on these changes and how they apply to your agency, readers should consult the Ministry for Regulation’s official announcement at [www.regulation.govt.nz](https://www.regulation.govt.nz).

Frequently asked questions

What are Consistency Accountability Statements (CASs) and what have they changed?: Consistency Accountability Statements (CASs) are accountability documents used by agencies to demonstrate that new regulations are consistent with existing laws and policies. The updated guidance and templates aim to clarify how these statements should be prepared, ensuring alignment and transparency in regulatory processes.
What is the difference between RISs and RASs?: RISs (Regulatory Impact Statements) were previously used for assessing potential impacts of proposed regulations. The new RASs are a more detailed analysis that provides stakeholders with a comprehensive understanding of proposed regulatory changes before they are implemented.
What resources are available to assist agencies in understanding these updates?: The Ministry for Regulation has provided webinars and recorded presentations on various aspects of the transition from RISs to RASs, including exemptions for impact analysis requirements, publishing RASs, and managing incomplete impact analyses. These resources can be accessed through their official website.

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Regulatory Changes for Agencies: What You Need to Know

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