H.R.es122 - Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 77) to amend chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, to provide for en bloc consideration in resolutions of disapproval for midnight rules, and for other purposes. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.Res. 122 is a resolution providing for the consideration of H.R. 77, a bill that seeks to amend chapter 8 of title 5 of the United States Code. The amendment would allow for en bloc consideration of resolutions of disapproval for "midnight rules." This resolution sets the terms for debate and consideration of H.R. 77 in the House of Representatives.
Specifically, it waives points of order against the bill's consideration and its provisions. It also limits debate to one hour, equally divided between the chair and ranking minority member of the Judiciary Committee, and allows for one motion to recommit.
In essence, H.Res. 122 streamlines the process for the House to consider and vote on H.R. 77, expediting potential changes to the review process for regulations issued at the end of a presidential administration.
Expected Effects
The adoption of H.Res. 122 will allow the House of Representatives to more efficiently consider H.R. 77.
This could lead to a faster implementation of changes to the process for disapproving "midnight rules". Ultimately, this could result in a greater ability for Congress to review and potentially overturn regulations issued at the end of a presidential term.
The practical effect is to give Congress more power to check the executive branch's regulatory actions during specific periods.
Potential Benefits
- Streamlines the legislative process for considering H.R. 77, potentially leading to quicker action on regulatory reform.
- Increases congressional oversight of executive branch regulations, particularly those issued near the end of a presidential term.
- Could lead to more efficient governance by allowing Congress to address "midnight rules" more effectively.
- May reduce the potential for burdensome or poorly considered regulations to take effect without adequate scrutiny.
- Promotes accountability by ensuring that significant regulatory actions are subject to congressional review.
Potential Disadvantages
- Limits debate on H.R. 77, potentially preventing a thorough examination of its implications.
- Waives points of order, which could bypass important procedural safeguards and checks on the legislative process.
- May lead to rushed decision-making on complex regulatory issues.
- Could be used to quickly overturn regulations that are beneficial to the public or the environment.
- Potentially increases political polarization by making it easier for Congress to target regulations issued by the opposing party.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution itself is procedurally aligned with the Constitution, as Article I, Section 5 grants each house of Congress the power to determine the rules of its proceedings. The underlying bill, H.R. 77, aims to amend Title 5 of the U.S. Code, which governs the administrative procedures of government agencies.
While the resolution doesn't directly implicate specific constitutional rights, its impact on the balance of power between the legislative and executive branches could be significant. By streamlining the process for disapproving regulations, it potentially strengthens Congress's oversight role, which aligns with the principle of checks and balances.
However, concerns could arise if the expedited process leads to hasty decisions that infringe upon individual rights or exceed Congress's enumerated powers. The constitutionality of the underlying bill, H.R. 77, and any regulations enacted or overturned as a result, would need to be assessed separately.
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).