Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration relating to Pipeline Safety: Editorial Change To Reflect the Name Change of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America.
Summary
This document is a joint resolution introduced in the Senate to disapprove a rule submitted by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). The rule in question involves an editorial change to reflect the name change of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. The resolution seeks to nullify this rule under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code.
Expected Effects
If the resolution passes, the PHMSA rule changing the name from Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America will have no legal effect. This means the original name, Gulf of Mexico, would remain the official designation in relevant regulations and documents. The practical impact would primarily be on official terminology and documentation related to pipeline safety.
Potential Benefits
- Prevents potential confusion or disruption caused by a name change in existing regulations and documentation.
- Avoids the costs associated with updating and revising official materials to reflect the new name.
- Maintains consistency with established geographical naming conventions.
- Upholds congressional oversight of agency rulemaking, ensuring accountability.
- Reduces uncertainty for stakeholders who rely on accurate and consistent terminology.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May hinder efforts to modernize or update geographical references in federal regulations.
- Could be perceived as resistance to change or a rejection of a potentially more accurate or inclusive name.
- Might create a situation where federal regulations are out of sync with common usage or scientific consensus, if the name change reflects a broader shift in terminology.
- Potential for increased costs if the name change is implemented later.
- May be seen as an inefficient use of congressional resources to address a minor editorial change.
Constitutional Alignment
This resolution aligns with Article I, Section 7 of the US Constitution, which outlines the process for bills to become law, including joint resolutions. Chapter 8 of Title 5, referenced in the document, pertains to congressional review of agency rulemaking, which is a mechanism for Congress to check the power of the executive branch and ensure that agencies are acting within the scope of their delegated authority. The resolution itself does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or principles.
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).