Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Units: Temporary-Use Incinerators and Air Curtain Incinerators Used in Disaster Recovery.
Summary
This joint resolution aims to disapprove a rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Units, specifically those used temporarily and air curtain incinerators during disaster recovery. The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act, chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, to nullify the EPA's rule. The rule in question is published in the Federal Register (90 Fed. Reg. 41508) on August 26, 2025.
Expected Effects
If the resolution passes, the EPA's rule concerning temporary-use incinerators and air curtain incinerators used in disaster recovery will be invalidated. This would mean the EPA's regulations on these specific incineration units would not be enforced. The practical effect would be that the incinerators would not be subject to the requirements outlined in the disapproved rule.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially lower costs for disaster recovery efforts by reducing regulatory burdens.
- Faster debris removal following disasters due to less stringent incineration requirements.
- Increased flexibility for businesses and industries in managing solid waste during emergencies.
- Could spur innovation in waste management technologies if the existing rule is perceived as overly restrictive.
- May reduce administrative burdens on state and local governments during disaster response.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased air pollution due to less stringent regulations on incineration.
- Possible negative impacts on public health, especially for communities near incineration sites.
- Reduced environmental oversight during disaster recovery, potentially harming ecosystems.
- May undermine long-term efforts to promote sustainable waste management practices.
- Could lead to inconsistencies in environmental regulations across different states.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
This resolution is an exercise of Congress's legislative powers as granted by Article I, Section 1 of the US Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in the Congress. Specifically, it utilizes the Congressional Review Act, which allows Congress to review and potentially disapprove agency regulations. This is a mechanism for congressional oversight of the executive branch, ensuring that agencies do not overstep their authority. The resolution itself does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or protections.
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).