In March 2017 through Resolution No. 44, the Council of Ministers took key steps in installing RIA in Portugal. Under its current implementation, the so-called Legislative Impact Analysis requires policy makers to qualitatively describe benefits and to quantify the impact of new regulations on businesses. It also includes an SME Test and a competition impact assessment. The Technical Unit for Legislative Impact Assessment (UTAIL), was established to provide oversight and support for the new RIA. In 2018, ministries will also be required to assess legislative impacts on citizens and as of 2019 impacts on public administration.
Although the role of RIA has expanded, it is not yet used in consultation with stakeholders. Stakeholders often only have a chance to comment when there is a draft regulation. Portugal could approach stakeholders earlier and before a preferred option is selected. A RIA could also be made available to stakeholders to support discussions.
In 2016, Portugal updated its administrative simplification programme from the Simplex to the Simplex+. The programme centres on the measures that the public service commits to implement within a year to simplify the life of citizens and companies. A team criss‑crossed the country over four months to gather feedback, interviewing 2 000 citizens and business and holding special forums within the public sector. A key factor supporting the success of Simplex+ is the thorough follow-up and monitoring. Members of the public can submit suggestions at any time about administrative processes. Portugal could consider introducing “in-depth” reviews in particular sectors or policy areas.
