The Administrative Procedure Act (APA) is a U.S. law enacted in 1946 that governs the process by which federal agencies develop and issue regulations. It aims to ensure transparency, public participation, and fairness in the rulemaking process. The APA outlines the steps agencies must follow, including providing notice of proposed rules and allowing for public comment. The APA also establishes standards for judicial review of agency actions, ensuring that courts can review whether agencies have acted within their authority. This law is essential for maintaining a balance between government regulation and individual rights, promoting accountability in the actions of federal agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency and the Federal Communications Commission.