H.J.Res.34 - Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to Trichloroethylene (TCE); Regulation Under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). (119th Congress)
Summary
H.J.Res.34 is a joint resolution introduced in the House of Representatives aiming to disapprove a final rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning Trichloroethylene (TCE) regulation under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The resolution seeks to nullify the EPA rule, preventing it from taking effect. The rule in question is identified as 89 Fed. Reg. 102568, published on December 17, 2024.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.J.Res.34 would prevent the EPA's TCE regulation from being enforced. This would leave existing regulations in place, potentially impacting industries that use TCE. The practical effect is a rollback of environmental regulations related to this specific chemical.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces compliance costs for industries using TCE.
- May prevent disruptions to supply chains that rely on TCE.
- Could avoid potential negative impacts on specific sectors of the economy.
- May allow for further evaluation of the EPA's risk assessment and regulatory approach.
- Could lead to a more balanced approach between environmental protection and economic considerations.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could lead to increased exposure to TCE, a known toxic substance.
- May undermine efforts to protect public health from environmental hazards.
- Could weaken environmental regulations and set a precedent for disapproving future EPA rules.
- May negatively impact vulnerable populations disproportionately exposed to TCE.
- Could harm the environment and biodiversity in areas affected by TCE emissions.
Constitutional Alignment
This resolution invokes Congress's power to review and disapprove agency regulations under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, often referred to as the Congressional Review Act (CRA). Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution vests all legislative powers in Congress, which arguably includes the power to oversee and check the executive branch's regulatory actions. However, the extent of this oversight and the use of mechanisms like the CRA can be subject to debate regarding the separation of powers.
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).