H.R.3194 - Lifting Overburdensome Commerce Obstructions and Motives Act; LOCOMOTIVES Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3194, the LOCOMOTIVES Act, aims to amend the Clean Air Act by restricting the ability of states to set emission standards for existing locomotives and engines used in locomotives engaged in commerce. The bill seeks to establish a uniform federal standard, preventing states from imposing potentially conflicting or more stringent regulations. This legislation is sponsored by Mr. Moolenaar, Mr. Obernolte, and Mr. Goldman of Texas and has been referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to preempt state-level regulations on locomotive emissions, centralizing control at the federal level. This could lead to reduced compliance costs for railroad companies operating across multiple states. However, it may also result in less stringent emission controls in states that previously had stricter standards.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced Compliance Costs: Railroad companies would benefit from a single, federal standard instead of navigating varying state regulations.
- Streamlined Operations: Interstate commerce would be simplified by eliminating the need to adhere to different emission standards in different states.
- Potential for Innovation: A uniform standard could encourage innovation in emission control technologies applicable nationwide.
- Economic Growth: Reduced costs for railroad companies could translate to lower shipping costs, benefiting businesses and consumers.
- Predictability: Businesses can plan and invest with greater certainty due to consistent regulations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Environmental Concerns: States with stricter emission standards may see a decline in air quality if the federal standard is less stringent.
- Reduced State Autonomy: The bill limits the ability of states to address specific environmental concerns related to locomotive emissions within their borders.
- Potential Health Impacts: Relaxed emission standards could lead to increased pollution and associated health problems in some areas.
- Lack of Local Control: Communities may have less say in regulating emissions that directly affect their local environment.
- Disproportionate Impact: Areas heavily reliant on rail transport may experience a greater negative impact from potentially weaker emission standards.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution hinges on the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce. By establishing a uniform federal standard for locomotive emissions, the bill aims to prevent states from creating barriers to interstate commerce. However, the Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, raising questions about the extent to which Congress can preempt state environmental regulations. The balance between these constitutional principles would likely be a key point of contention.
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).