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 National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska Integrated Activity Plan Record of Decision.
Summary
This joint resolution aims to disapprove a rule submitted by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) regarding the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska Integrated Activity Plan Record of Decision. The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act, specifically chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, to challenge the BLM's decision. The disapproval, if enacted, would nullify the rule, preventing it from having legal force or effect.
Expected Effects
If the resolution passes, the BLM's rule concerning the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska would be invalidated. This could lead to a re-evaluation of the activity plan for the reserve. It could also potentially impact energy development and environmental conservation efforts in the region.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially allows Congress to exert greater oversight on executive agency actions.
- Could lead to a revised activity plan that better balances energy development and environmental protection.
- May address concerns raised by the Government Accountability Office regarding the original rule.
- Provides an opportunity for public and congressional input on resource management in Alaska.
- Could ensure greater transparency and accountability in the BLM's decision-making process.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could disrupt existing energy development plans and create uncertainty for businesses operating in the region.
- May delay or prevent the extraction of valuable energy resources from the National Petroleum Reserve.
- Could lead to legal challenges and further disputes over the management of the reserve.
- May be viewed as an overreach of congressional authority into executive agency decision-making.
- Could negatively impact the relationship between the BLM and stakeholders in Alaska.
Constitutional Alignment
This resolution invokes the Congressional Review Act, which is designed to provide Congress with a mechanism to review and potentially disapprove of agency rules. Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution vests all legislative powers in Congress, which arguably includes the power to oversee and check the actions of the executive branch. The constitutionality of the Congressional Review Act itself has been debated, but it generally aligns with the principle of checks and balances.
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).