H.J.Res.35 - Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to Waste Emissions Charge for Petroleum and Natural Gas Systems: Procedures for Facilitating Compliance, Including Netting and Exemptions. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.J.Res.35 is a joint resolution passed by Congress to disapprove a rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning waste emissions charges for petroleum and natural gas systems. The rule in question, 89 Fed. Reg. 91094, addresses procedures for compliance, including netting and exemptions, related to these emissions charges. The resolution aims to nullify the EPA rule, preventing it from taking effect.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect of H.J.Res.35 is that the EPA rule regarding waste emissions charges for petroleum and natural gas systems will not be enforced. This means that the specific procedures for compliance, netting, and exemptions outlined in the rule will not be implemented. The long-term effect could involve altered environmental regulations and potential impacts on the oil and gas industry.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces compliance costs for oil and gas companies.
- May prevent increased energy prices due to emissions charges.
- Could encourage alternative methods of emissions reduction.
- May foster innovation in emissions control technologies without mandated charges.
- Could prevent potential economic disadvantages to energy-producing states.
Potential Disadvantages
- May lead to increased methane and other harmful emissions from the oil and gas sector.
- Could hinder efforts to combat climate change and environmental degradation.
- May undermine the EPA's authority to regulate pollution.
- Potentially delays the adoption of cleaner technologies and practices.
- Could negatively impact public health due to increased pollution.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the principle of congressional oversight of executive agencies, as established in Article I, Section 1, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. The Congressional Review Act, under which this resolution is enacted, allows Congress to review and potentially disapprove new agency regulations. This action reflects Congress's power to check the executive branch and ensure that regulations align with legislative intent. The specific constitutional authority for environmental regulation is less explicit, leading to ongoing debates about the scope of federal power in this area.
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).