S.164 - Midnight Rules Relief Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Midnight Rules Relief Act of 2025 (S.164) aims to amend Title 5 of the United States Code, specifically concerning the Congressional review of agency rulemaking. The bill focuses on 'midnight rules,' defined as regulations finalized near the end of a presidential term. It seeks to allow Congress to consider resolutions of disapproval for multiple 'midnight rules' in a single vote, streamlining the process of potentially overturning these regulations.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would change the procedure by which Congress reviews and potentially overturns regulations issued at the end of a presidential term. It would allow for en bloc consideration of resolutions of disapproval, potentially leading to more efficient and comprehensive review of 'midnight rules'. This could result in the overturning of more regulations from an outgoing administration.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Congressional Efficiency: Allows for quicker review and potential disapproval of multiple 'midnight rules'.
- Reduced Regulatory Burden: Could lead to the removal of regulations deemed unnecessary or burdensome by Congress.
- Enhanced Congressional Oversight: Strengthens Congress's ability to check the power of the executive branch in its final days.
- Greater Accountability: Holds agencies accountable for regulations issued near the end of a presidential term.
- Potential for Streamlined Regulations: Could result in a more streamlined and efficient regulatory environment.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Partisan Abuse: Could be used by the opposing party to quickly overturn regulations based on political grounds rather than merit.
- Reduced Agency Expertise: May undermine the expertise of regulatory agencies by allowing for quick disapproval of complex rules.
- Increased Uncertainty: Creates uncertainty for businesses and individuals who rely on existing regulations.
- Disruption of Regulatory Framework: Could disrupt carefully crafted regulatory frameworks.
- Reduced Public Input: En bloc consideration may limit the opportunity for public input on individual rules.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's principle of checks and balances, granting Congress a tool to oversee executive branch rulemaking, as outlined in Article I, Section 1, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. By modifying the Congressional Review Act (CRA) process, it seeks to enhance Congress's ability to review and potentially disapprove regulations issued by federal agencies. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or protections.
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).