Within the federal government, there are 14 executive departments, which are further divided into agencies with specific duties. There are also more than 100 other independent federal agencies regulating many aspects of life.
    Each is diverse in size and mission, and in some cases, their responsibilities overlap.
    Here are brief descriptions of some major federal agencies, all of whose rulemaking proceedings are open to public comment:

Consumer Product Safety Commission — helps protect the public from injury caused by consumer products.
Federal Communications Commission — regulates television, radio, wire, satellite, and cable communications.
Federal Emergency Management Agency — provides assistance to citizens and local government agencies to help reduce loss of life and property during disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and fires.
Federal Trade Commission — promotes free and fair trade competition in the American economy.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration — sets and enforces safety standards for automobiles to help prevent injuries and death in crashes.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration — protects the health of American workers on the job by setting standards for employers to follow.
Securities and Exchange Commission — responsible for protecting the public against malpractice in the stock market and other financial markets.
Small Business Administration — lends money to business owners and provides financial assistance following natural disasters, including hurricanes and floods. Provides support to businesses operated by women and minorities.