Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Land Management relating to Central Yukon Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan.
Summary
This joint resolution provides for congressional disapproval of the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) "Central Yukon Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan." It was issued on November 12, 2024. The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify the BLM's rule.
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) determined that the BLM's plan qualifies as a rule under the CRA.
If passed, the resolution would prevent the BLM's plan from taking effect.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this resolution, if enacted, would be to invalidate the Bureau of Land Management's Central Yukon Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan. This means the existing management practices in the Central Yukon region would continue, and any changes proposed in the BLM's plan would not be implemented.
This could lead to a re-evaluation of resource management strategies for the area.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially allows for a revised resource management plan that better addresses local concerns or incorporates updated scientific data.
- Could prevent unintended negative consequences of the BLM's plan on specific industries or communities in the Central Yukon region.
- Reinforces congressional oversight of executive agency actions, ensuring accountability and adherence to legislative intent.
- May lead to a more balanced approach to resource management that considers both environmental protection and economic development.
- Provides an opportunity for further stakeholder engagement and public input in the development of a new resource management plan.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could delay or prevent implementation of measures designed to protect the environment or conserve natural resources in the Central Yukon region.
- May create uncertainty for businesses and communities that rely on the resources managed under the BLM's plan.
- Could lead to continued resource management practices that are not sustainable or that do not adequately address current environmental challenges.
- May be perceived as undermining the authority of the Bureau of Land Management and its expertise in resource management.
- Could result in missed opportunities to improve resource management practices and promote economic development in the Central Yukon region.
Constitutional Alignment
This resolution aligns with Article I, Section 1 of the US Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. The Congressional Review Act, under which this resolution is enacted, is a mechanism for Congress to oversee and disapprove of rules issued by executive agencies, ensuring that these agencies do not overstep their delegated authority.
By disapproving the BLM's rule, Congress is exercising its legislative power to shape policy and ensure that agency actions are consistent with congressional intent. This action also aligns with the principle of checks and balances, as it allows Congress to review and potentially overturn actions taken by the executive branch.
However, the specific merits of disapproving the BLM's rule depend on whether the rule itself is consistent with other constitutional principles, such as the protection of property rights or the promotion of the general welfare.
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).