Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

S.jres31 - Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to Review of Final Rule Reclassification of Major Sources as Area Sources Under Section 112 of the Clean Air Act. (119th Congress)

Summary

This document is a joint resolution (S.J. Res. 31) introduced in the Senate during the 119th Congress. It aims to disapprove a rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning the reclassification of major sources as area sources under Section 112 of the Clean Air Act. The resolution invokes Chapter 8 of Title 5 of the United States Code, which provides a mechanism for congressional review of agency rulemaking.

Expected Effects

If enacted, this resolution would nullify the EPA rule, preventing it from taking effect. This would mean that facilities previously reclassified as area sources would remain subject to the regulations applicable to major sources under Section 112 of the Clean Air Act. The practical effect would be to maintain stricter environmental controls on those facilities.

Potential Benefits

  • Potentially maintains stricter environmental standards, leading to reduced pollution.
  • May protect public health by limiting emissions from industrial sources.
  • Could preserve the original intent of the Clean Air Act regarding major sources of pollution.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Could increase regulatory burden on businesses, potentially hindering economic growth.
  • May stifle innovation in pollution control technologies if companies are less incentivized to reduce emissions below major source thresholds.
  • Could lead to legal challenges and uncertainty regarding environmental regulations.

Constitutional Alignment

This resolution is an exercise of Congress's legislative power under Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. The Congressional Review Act, under which this resolution is brought, is a mechanism by which Congress can check the power of the executive branch in implementing laws. It aligns with the principle of separation of powers.

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).