Høringsnotatet

A høringsnotat, or consultation memorandum, is a document used in the Danish administrative and legislative process. It serves as a basis for seeking feedback from relevant stakeholders on a proposed piece of legislation, regulation, or policy. Typically, a høringsnotat is prepared by a government ministry or agency and outlines the intended changes, the rationale behind them, and the potential consequences.

The primary purpose of a høringsnotat is to gather diverse perspectives and expert opinions before a final decision is made. This process is crucial for ensuring that proposed measures are well-considered, practical, and take into account the interests of affected parties, which can include individuals, businesses, organizations, and other public authorities. The stakeholders are given a specific period to submit their written comments and suggestions.

After the consultation period, the issuing authority reviews all the submitted feedback. This feedback can lead to amendments or even a complete revision of the original proposal. The høringsnotat and the subsequent responses often form part of the official record, contributing to transparency in the governmental decision-making process. This mechanism helps to foster a more democratic and inclusive approach to policy development.