Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to Emissions Budget and Allowance Allocations for Indiana Under the Revised Cross-State Air Pollution Rule Update.

Summary

This document is a joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) rule regarding emissions budget and allowance allocations for Indiana under the Revised Cross-State Air Pollution Rule Update. The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify the EPA rule. It was introduced in the Senate, referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works, and subsequently discharged by petition to be placed on the calendar.

Expected Effects

If enacted, this resolution would prevent the EPA's rule concerning Indiana's emissions budget and allowance allocations from taking effect. This could lead to a different approach to managing air pollution in Indiana, potentially impacting the state's industries and environment. The disapproval would effectively reset the regulatory landscape to the pre-rule conditions.

Potential Benefits

  • Could provide regulatory relief for Indiana industries potentially affected by the EPA rule.
  • May allow for a re-evaluation of the emissions budget and allowance allocations, potentially leading to a more tailored approach.
  • Could reduce compliance costs for businesses in Indiana.
  • May foster a debate on the appropriate balance between environmental regulation and economic considerations.
  • Could empower Congress to check regulatory actions by the EPA.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Could lead to increased air pollution in Indiana if the EPA rule is not implemented.
  • May negatively impact public health due to higher emissions levels.
  • Could undermine efforts to address cross-state air pollution.
  • May create uncertainty for businesses that have already begun to comply with the EPA rule.
  • Could set a precedent for congressional disapproval of other environmental regulations.

Constitutional Alignment

The resolution is authorized under Article I, Section 7, which outlines the legislative process, and is an exercise of Congress's power to legislate. The Congressional Review Act, under which this resolution is brought, is itself a delegation of legislative authority, which is generally permissible. The resolution also implicates the separation of powers, as it involves Congress reviewing and potentially overturning an executive agency's rule. The constitutionality of the CRA itself has been debated, but it remains a valid law.

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).