Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Land Management relating to Buffalo Field Office Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan Amendment.

Summary

This joint resolution aims to disapprove a rule submitted by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) concerning the Buffalo Field Office Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan Amendment. The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify the BLM's rule. The rule was issued on November 20, 2024, and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) determined it to be a rule under the CRA.

Expected Effects

If passed, the resolution would prevent the BLM's rule regarding the Buffalo Field Office from taking effect. This would maintain the existing resource management plan until further action is taken. The disapproval would impact land use, resource allocation, and environmental regulations within the Buffalo Field Office area.

Potential Benefits

  • Could allow for a reassessment of the BLM's decision, potentially leading to a more balanced approach to resource management.
  • May address concerns raised by local communities or stakeholders regarding the original rule.
  • Could prevent unintended negative consequences of the rule on specific industries or environmental factors.
  • Provides an opportunity for Congress to exercise its oversight role in federal agency actions.
  • Could lead to a more transparent and inclusive decision-making process for resource management plans.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Could create uncertainty for businesses and individuals who rely on the BLM's resource management plan.
  • May delay or prevent implementation of measures intended to protect the environment or promote sustainable resource use.
  • Could be viewed as an overreach of congressional authority into agency decision-making.
  • May lead to political gridlock and hinder the BLM's ability to effectively manage public lands.
  • Could result in legal challenges and further delays in implementing a resource management plan.

Constitutional Alignment

This resolution aligns with Article I, Section 1 of the US Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. The Congressional Review Act, under which this resolution is brought, is a mechanism for Congress to review and potentially disapprove agency rules, reinforcing its legislative oversight function. The resolution does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or freedoms.

Impact Assessment: Things You Care About

This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).