H.J.Res.82 - Disapproving the action of the District of Columbia Council in approving the Insurance Regulation Amendment Act of 2024. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.J.Res.82 is a joint resolution introduced in the House of Representatives aiming to disapprove of the Insurance Regulation Amendment Act of 2024, which was enacted by the Council of the District of Columbia. The resolution specifically targets D.C. Act 25-699, transmitted to Congress on February 6, 2025, under the District of Columbia Home Rule Act. The resolution expresses Congressional disapproval of the D.C. Council's action.
Expected Effects
If passed, H.J.Res.82 would effectively nullify the Insurance Regulation Amendment Act of 2024 in the District of Columbia. This would maintain the existing insurance regulations in D.C. as they were prior to the D.C. Council's action. The ultimate impact depends on the content of the Insurance Regulation Amendment Act of 2024, which is not detailed in this document.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially prevents unintended negative consequences of the Insurance Regulation Amendment Act if Congress believes it is flawed.
- Upholds Congressional oversight authority over the District of Columbia.
- Could align insurance regulations with a broader national standard if the D.C. act deviates significantly.
- May address concerns raised by constituents or stakeholders regarding the D.C. act.
- Provides a check on local D.C. legislation.
Potential Disadvantages
- Undermines the principle of local governance and the autonomy of the District of Columbia.
- Could lead to regulatory uncertainty if the reasons for disapproval are not clearly articulated.
- May create friction between the D.C. Council and the U.S. Congress.
- Potentially disregards the will of the D.C. residents as expressed through their elected council.
- May stifle innovation or necessary updates to insurance regulations in D.C.
Constitutional Alignment
The disapproval action is rooted in the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, which grants Congress specific oversight authority over D.C. This authority stems from Article I, Section 8, Clause 17 of the U.S. Constitution, which gives Congress the power to exercise exclusive legislation in all cases whatsoever over the District of Columbia. The resolution's alignment with the Constitution depends on whether the disapproval is based on a valid constitutional concern or an overreach of federal power into local affairs.
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).