Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

H.J.Res.79 - Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to Review of Final Rule Reclassification of Major Sources as Area Sources Under Section 112 of the Clean Air Act. (119th Congress)

Summary

H.J.Res.79 is a joint resolution introduced in the House of Representatives aiming to disapprove a final rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The rule in question concerns the "Review of Final Rule Reclassification of Major Sources as Area Sources Under Section 112 of the Clean Air Act." The resolution seeks to nullify the EPA's rule, preventing it from having any force or effect.

Expected Effects

If enacted, H.J.Res.79 would effectively overturn the EPA's rule regarding the reclassification of major sources as area sources under the Clean Air Act. This would mean that the regulatory landscape for these sources would revert to the pre-rule conditions. The practical effect would be to maintain stricter environmental regulations on facilities that might have otherwise been reclassified.

Potential Benefits

  • Potentially maintains stricter environmental standards, leading to cleaner air and reduced pollution.
  • Could prevent increased emissions of hazardous air pollutants.
  • May protect public health by limiting exposure to pollutants.
  • Supports the original intent of Section 112 of the Clean Air Act.
  • Reinforces the role of Congress in overseeing agency regulations.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Could hinder economic growth by maintaining stricter regulations on businesses.
  • May limit flexibility for businesses in complying with environmental regulations.
  • Could stifle innovation in pollution control technologies if regulations are perceived as too stringent.
  • May increase compliance costs for affected industries.
  • Potentially creates uncertainty in the regulatory environment.

Constitutional Alignment

The resolution invokes Chapter 8 of Title 5 of the U.S. Code, which pertains to congressional review of agency rulemaking, suggesting an effort to exercise legislative oversight. Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution vests all legislative powers in Congress, implying the power to review and potentially disapprove of agency actions. The resolution does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or freedoms.

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).