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 Central Yukon Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan.
Summary
This joint resolution aims to disapprove a rule submitted by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) concerning the "Central Yukon Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan." The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify the BLM's rule. The rule was issued on November 12, 2024, and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) determined it to be a rule under the CRA on June 25, 2025.
If passed, the resolution would prevent the BLM's resource management plan from taking effect. This action reflects Congress's oversight role in reviewing and potentially rejecting agency regulations.
The resolution passed the House of Representatives on September 3, 2025, and was received in the Senate on September 4, 2025.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this resolution, if enacted, would be to invalidate the Bureau of Land Management's "Central Yukon Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan."
This would mean the BLM would need to either revise the plan and resubmit it or operate without the approved plan. The immediate impact would be a halt to the implementation of the current resource management strategy for the Central Yukon area.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially allows for a revised resource management plan that better aligns with congressional priorities.
- Reinforces congressional oversight of executive agency actions, ensuring accountability.
- Could lead to a plan that is perceived as more balanced in addressing competing interests (e.g., environmental protection vs. resource development).
- May address specific concerns raised by stakeholders regarding the original BLM plan.
- Provides an opportunity for greater public input and transparency in the resource management planning process.
Potential Disadvantages
- Creates uncertainty regarding resource management in the Central Yukon region, potentially delaying needed conservation or development projects.
- Could lead to increased political conflict between Congress and the executive branch over land management policies.
- May discourage the BLM from proactively developing resource management plans in the future, fearing congressional disapproval.
- Could result in a less comprehensive or effective resource management approach if a suitable alternative plan is not developed promptly.
- Potentially disrupts existing agreements or collaborations with local communities and stakeholders.
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 being considered, is an exercise of Congress's power to oversee and disapprove of rules issued by executive branch agencies. This oversight function is a key aspect of the system of checks and balances established by the Constitution. The resolution does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).