asetusehdotus

Asetusehdotus is a draft proposal for a government regulation (asetuksen) prepared by a ministry or the Government of Finland as part of the regulatory drafting process. It constitutes the preparatory stage of subordinate legislation, which is used to implement, interpret, or complement higher-level legislation such as acts.

Asetusehdotus is distinct from lakiehdotus (bill) which is proposed for enactment by Parliament, whereas an asetusehdotus is intended for adoption by the Government or a competent minister to create or amend a binding regulation applicable within Finland.

The drafting process typically includes: problem identification and policy decisions; drafting the text of the regulation; impact assessment (economic, administrative, social effects as required by law); consultation with stakeholders and, where appropriate, a public or administrative feedback stage; internal clearance within the drafting ministry. After approval by the relevant cabinet body, the text is issued as an asetuksen and published in official channels, commonly the Finnish law database Finlex and the official gazette.

In effect, an asetusehdotus is the vehicle by which government-issued rules are conceived before becoming an operative Regulation (asetus). It is used across sectors including employment, environment, taxation, and public administration. The specific procedures, deadlines, and publication requirements depend on the enabling legislation and government rules.