The rule making procedure is the only check I know of that those outside government have on federal agencies. The FAA and other agencies are staffed by non-elected people who do not, and do not have to respond to the criticisms of those they supposedly serve. Congress still has some oversight of agencies because of its budgetary and appointive powers, but that leverage is cumbersome and slow. Federal agencies are beyond the reach of concerned citizens and don't need to respond to them. We, as pilots, need the help of the alphabet groups whenever issues like this arise.
Don