H.J.Res.57 - Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of the Interior relating to Oil and Gas and Sulfur Operations in the Outer Continental Shelf-High Pressure High Temperature Updates. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.J. Res. 57 is a joint resolution introduced in the House of Representatives aiming to disapprove a rule submitted by the Department of the Interior concerning "Oil and Gas and Sulfur Operations in the Outer Continental Shelf-High Pressure High Temperature Updates." The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify the rule. The rule itself likely pertains to safety and operational standards for oil and gas activities in high-pressure, high-temperature environments on the Outer Continental Shelf.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.J. Res. 57 would prevent the Department of the Interior's rule from taking effect or continuing in effect. This would mean that the existing regulations, or potentially a lack of specific regulations, would govern oil and gas operations in high-pressure, high-temperature environments on the Outer Continental Shelf. The practical effect depends on the stringency and scope of the disapproved rule, and what regulations were in place before it.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces regulatory burdens on oil and gas companies, leading to lower operational costs.
- Could encourage increased domestic energy production.
- May streamline the permitting process for offshore drilling.
- Could lead to increased revenue for states that border the Outer Continental Shelf through royalties and taxes.
- Potentially avoids unintended consequences or compliance costs associated with the new rule.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May weaken safety standards for oil and gas operations in high-risk environments.
- Could increase the risk of accidents and environmental damage.
- Potentially undermines efforts to modernize regulations based on updated scientific knowledge and technological advancements.
- Might create uncertainty for businesses if regulatory standards are frequently changed or challenged.
- Could negatively impact the environment and marine ecosystems.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution's use of the Congressional Review Act (CRA) is a constitutionally permissible exercise of Congress's legislative power, as outlined in Article I, Section 1, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. The CRA itself is a mechanism established by Congress to oversee and potentially disapprove of agency rulemaking, ensuring that executive branch actions align with legislative intent. The resolution 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).