H.R.1651 - To nullify the final rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to New Source Performance Standards for Greenhouse Gas Emissions From New, Modified, and Reconstructed Fossil Fuel-Fired Electric Generating Units; Emission Guidelines for Greenhouse Gas Emissions From Existing Fossil Fuel-Fired Electric Generating Units; and Repeal of the Affordable Clean Energy Rule. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1651 aims to nullify the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) final rule concerning greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel-fired electric generating units. This includes new source performance standards, emission guidelines for existing units, and the repeal of the Affordable Clean Energy (ACE) Rule. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 27, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 1651 would eliminate the EPA's regulatory framework for greenhouse gas emissions from power plants. This could lead to increased emissions and potentially slower adoption of cleaner energy technologies. The nullification would revert to the regulatory landscape prior to the EPA's rule.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially lower energy costs in the short term due to reduced compliance costs for power plants.
- Could prevent premature retirement of fossil fuel-fired power plants, maintaining grid reliability.
- May encourage innovation in emission control technologies rather than mandating specific solutions.
- Could reduce regulatory burden on energy producers, freeing up capital for other investments.
- May protect jobs in the fossil fuel industry.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change.
- Potential for worsened air quality and related public health issues.
- Slower transition to cleaner energy sources and technologies.
- Could undermine international efforts to combat climate change.
- May lead to long-term economic costs associated with climate change impacts.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality hinges on the balance of powers between Congress and the Executive branch (specifically, the EPA). Congress has the power to legislate and can nullify agency rules through legislation, as per Article I, Section 1. However, the Executive branch has the authority to implement laws, and the EPA's rule is an exercise of that authority delegated by Congress through existing environmental laws. The debate often revolves around whether the EPA's rule exceeds the scope of authority delegated to it by Congress.
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).