Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to Air Plan Approval; West Virginia; Regional Haze State Implementation Plan for the Second Implementation Period.
Summary
This document is a joint resolution introduced in the Senate to disapprove a rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding West Virginia's Regional Haze State Implementation Plan for the Second Implementation Period. The resolution invokes Chapter 8 of Title 5 of the United States Code, which allows Congress to review and potentially disapprove agency rules. If passed, the resolution would nullify the EPA's rule, preventing it from taking effect.
Expected Effects
If the resolution is enacted, the EPA's rule concerning West Virginia's regional haze plan would not be implemented. This would leave the existing regulations in place, potentially affecting air quality and industrial operations in West Virginia. The state would need to revise its plan to meet EPA standards or face potential federal intervention.
Potential Benefits
- Could reduce regulatory burden on West Virginia industries, potentially lowering compliance costs.
- May prevent economic disadvantages for businesses that would have been affected by the new EPA rule.
- Could allow West Virginia to maintain control over its environmental regulations without federal intervention.
- Might lead to a more balanced approach between environmental protection and economic development within the state.
- Could encourage the state and EPA to negotiate a more mutually agreeable plan.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could result in continued or worsened regional haze, impacting air quality and visibility in the region.
- May delay improvements to environmental conditions required by the EPA's original rule.
- Could negatively affect public health due to the persistence of air pollutants.
- Might lead to legal challenges from environmental groups or neighboring states.
- Could undermine the EPA's authority to enforce environmental regulations and protect air quality.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
This resolution is an exercise of Congress's legislative powers as granted by Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in the Congress. The Congressional Review Act, under which this resolution is filed, is intended to provide a check on the power of the executive branch and its agencies, ensuring that regulations are subject to congressional oversight. The resolution itself does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or provisions.
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).