H.R.4043 - Line 5 Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 4043, the "Line 5 Act," aims to prevent the President or any designee from violating the 1977 Agreement between the U.S. and Canada concerning transit pipelines. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on June 17, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. The Act's primary purpose is to ensure adherence to the existing agreement regarding pipelines between the two countries.
This bill directly addresses concerns about potential executive actions that could contravene the established agreement. It seeks to provide a legislative safeguard for the terms outlined in the 1977 treaty.
The bill's short title, "Line 5 Act," suggests a specific focus on the Line 5 pipeline, a critical piece of infrastructure for both the U.S. and Canada.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill, if enacted, is to constrain the President's authority to unilaterally alter or terminate the Agreement between the U.S. and Canada Concerning Transit Pipelines. This would provide greater certainty for businesses and industries that rely on the pipeline.
It would also reassure Canada about the U.S.'s commitment to its treaty obligations. The bill could also set a precedent for Congressional oversight of international agreements.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures Stability in Energy Supply: By preventing unilateral changes to the transit pipeline agreement, the bill helps maintain a stable supply of energy resources.
- Strengthens U.S.-Canada Relations: Adherence to international agreements reinforces trust and cooperation between the two countries.
- Provides Regulatory Certainty: Businesses and industries relying on the pipeline benefit from the assurance that the agreement will be upheld.
- Upholds the Rule of Law: The bill reinforces the importance of honoring international treaties and agreements.
- Protects Existing Infrastructure Investments: Companies that have invested in the pipeline infrastructure are protected from potential disruptions.
Potential Disadvantages
- Limits Executive Flexibility: The bill restricts the President's ability to respond to unforeseen circumstances or renegotiate the agreement if needed.
- Potential for Conflict with Executive Branch: If the President believes the agreement is detrimental to U.S. interests, this bill could create a power struggle.
- May Hinder Future Negotiations: The bill could set a precedent that makes it more difficult to negotiate future international agreements.
- Risk of Strained Relations if Agreement Becomes Problematic: If the agreement becomes unfavorable to the U.S. in the future, the bill could hinder efforts to address the issue.
- Potential for Unintended Consequences: The bill's broad language could lead to unintended legal challenges or interpretations.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the U.S. Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations. By legislating on an international agreement concerning transit pipelines, Congress is exercising its authority over foreign commerce.
Furthermore, the bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights. However, the bill could be viewed as potentially infringing on the President's implied powers in foreign affairs, although Congress has the power to check the executive branch.
Overall, the bill's focus on upholding a treaty obligation suggests an intent to maintain international stability and cooperation, which aligns with the broader goals of the Constitution.
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).