H.J.Res.30 - Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to Phasedown of Hydrofluorocarbons: Management of Certain Hydrofluorocarbons and Substitutes Under the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.J.Res.30 is a joint resolution introduced in the House of Representatives aiming to disapprove a rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding the phasedown of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). The rule in question concerns the management of certain HFCs and their substitutes under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act of 2020.
The resolution seeks to nullify the EPA's rule, preventing it from having any force or effect. This action is based on the Congressional Review Act, which allows Congress to review and potentially disapprove new regulations issued by federal agencies.
The resolution was submitted by Mr. Dunn of Florida, along with several co-sponsors, and was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Expected Effects
If H.J.Res.30 is enacted, the EPA rule on the phasedown of HFCs would be invalidated. This would halt the current regulatory framework for managing HFCs and their substitutes as outlined under the AIM Act.
This could lead to uncertainty in industries that have already begun adapting to the EPA's regulations. It may also impact the United States' ability to meet international commitments related to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Potential Benefits
- Could reduce compliance costs for businesses that would have been subject to the EPA's HFC phasedown rule.
- May prevent potential economic disruptions associated with transitioning to alternative substances.
- Could allow for a re-evaluation of the regulatory approach to HFC management, potentially leading to a more flexible or efficient system.
- Might address concerns about the availability or cost of alternative substances to HFCs.
- Could empower Congress to have greater oversight over environmental regulations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could hinder efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.
- May negatively impact the development and adoption of more environmentally friendly alternatives to HFCs.
- Could create uncertainty for businesses that have already invested in transitioning to HFC substitutes.
- May undermine the United States' credibility in international climate agreements.
- Could lead to increased use of HFCs, contributing to ozone depletion and global warming.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution invokes Congress's power to review and disapprove agency regulations under the Congressional Review Act, which is derived from its legislative powers granted by Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution. This section vests all legislative powers in Congress, including the power to oversee and check the executive branch's regulatory actions.
Furthermore, the resolution reflects the principle of separation of powers, allowing Congress to act as a check on the executive branch's implementation of laws. By disapproving the EPA rule, Congress is asserting its authority to shape environmental policy and ensure that it aligns with the legislative intent of the AIM Act.
However, the Constitution does not explicitly address the specifics of environmental regulation, leaving room for interpretation and debate about the appropriate scope of federal authority in this area.
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).