H.R.es161 - Providing for consideration of the joint resolution (H.J. Res. 20) providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Energy relating to ‘‘Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for Consumer Gas-fired Instantaneous Water Heaters’’; providing for consideration of the joint resolution (H.J. Res. 35) providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, …
Summary
H.Res. 161 is a resolution providing for the consideration of two joint resolutions (H.J. Res. 20 and H.J. Res. 35) and a concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 14) in the House of Representatives. H.J. Res. 20 concerns congressional disapproval of the Department of Energy's rule on energy conservation standards for gas-fired instantaneous water heaters. H.J. Res. 35 addresses congressional disapproval of the Environmental Protection Agency's rule on waste emissions charges for petroleum and natural gas systems.
Expected Effects
If adopted, this resolution will allow the House to debate and vote on disapproving the Department of Energy's and EPA's rules related to energy conservation and waste emissions. It also sets the stage for considering the congressional budget for fiscal year 2025. The resolution streamlines the process by waiving points of order and setting time limits for debate.
Potential Benefits
- Allows Congress to review and potentially overturn agency regulations, ensuring accountability.
- Provides a framework for debating and establishing the federal budget.
- Streamlines the legislative process by waiving certain procedural hurdles.
- Ensures debate on energy and environmental regulations.
- Allows for amendments to be considered.
Potential Disadvantages
- May limit debate on complex issues due to time constraints.
- Could lead to the overturning of regulations designed to protect the environment or promote energy efficiency.
- Waiving points of order could bypass important procedural safeguards.
- Potential for partisan gridlock during budget debates.
- May prioritize speed over thorough consideration of the issues.
Constitutional Alignment
This resolution aligns with Article I, Section 5 of the Constitution, which grants each House the power to determine the rules of its proceedings. The resolution's provisions for considering joint resolutions of disapproval are consistent with Congress's oversight role. The setting of the congressional budget aligns with Congress's power of the purse, as outlined in Article I, Section 9.
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).