H.J.Res.18 - Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for Lead and Copper: Improvements (LCRI). (119th Congress)
Summary
H.J.Res.18 is a joint resolution introduced in the House of Representatives aiming to disapprove the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) rule regarding the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for Lead and Copper: Improvements (LCRI). The resolution seeks to nullify the rule, preventing it from taking effect. The reference to chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, indicates this disapproval is being pursued under the Congressional Review Act (CRA), which allows Congress to overturn agency regulations.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.J.Res.18 would prevent the EPA's updated Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) from being implemented. This would mean the existing regulations would remain in place, and any changes or improvements proposed by the EPA under the LCRI would not be enforced. The practical effect is that efforts to improve drinking water quality related to lead and copper would be stalled unless the EPA proposes a new rule that is not disapproved by Congress.
Potential Benefits
- Could prevent unintended negative consequences of the new rule if Congress believes the existing regulations are more effective.
- May address concerns about the economic impact of implementing the new regulations, potentially saving money for water systems and consumers in the short term.
- Allows for further review and potential revision of the rule to address specific concerns raised by Congress or other stakeholders.
- Could lead to a more balanced approach to lead and copper reduction in drinking water, taking into account both public health and economic considerations.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could delay or prevent improvements to drinking water quality, potentially leaving vulnerable populations at risk of lead and copper contamination.
- May undermine the EPA's authority to regulate drinking water standards and protect public health.
- Could create uncertainty for water systems and consumers, making it difficult to plan for future investments in infrastructure and treatment technologies.
- May be perceived as a politically motivated action that prioritizes short-term economic considerations over long-term public health goals.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution is an exercise of Congress's legislative power under Article I, Section 1, which vests all legislative powers in the Congress. The Congressional Review Act (CRA), under which this resolution is being pursued, is a mechanism established by Congress to oversee and potentially disapprove of agency regulations, ensuring that agencies do not overstep their authority. This aligns with the principle of checks and balances, as it allows Congress to review and potentially reject regulations issued by the executive branch.
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).