Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Coke Ovens: Pushing, Quenching, and Battery Stacks, and Coke Oven Batteries; Residual Risk and Technology Review, and Periodic Technology Review.
Summary
This document is a joint resolution introduced in the Senate, seeking congressional disapproval of an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule concerning National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for coke ovens. The rule in question specifically addresses pushing, quenching, battery stacks, and coke oven batteries, as well as residual risk and technology review, and periodic technology review. The resolution aims to nullify the EPA rule, preventing it from taking effect.
Expected Effects
If the resolution is passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives and is not vetoed by the President, the EPA rule regarding NESHAP for coke ovens will be invalidated. This would mean that the existing regulations, or the absence of specific regulations targeted by the rule, would remain in effect.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces compliance costs for coke oven operators if the EPA rule is considered overly burdensome.
- May prevent potential economic disruptions if the EPA rule is deemed economically unfeasible.
- Could allow for a re-evaluation of the EPA rule, potentially leading to a more balanced approach that considers both environmental protection and economic feasibility.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could lead to increased emissions of hazardous air pollutants from coke ovens, potentially impacting public health.
- May hinder efforts to reduce environmental risks associated with coke oven operations.
- Could undermine the EPA's authority to regulate air pollution and protect public health.
- May negatively impact environmental justice, as coke oven facilities are often located in or near marginalized communities.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution is an exercise of Congress's legislative power under Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. Specifically, it invokes the Congressional Review Act (chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code), which allows Congress to review and disapprove of agency rules. This is a mechanism for Congress to check the power of the executive branch and ensure that agencies are acting within the scope of their delegated authority. The resolution itself does not appear to violate any specific constitutional provision.
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).