Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service relating to Barred Owl Management Strategy.
Summary
This joint resolution aims to disapprove the United States Fish and Wildlife Service's (USFWS) rule regarding the "Barred Owl Management Strategy." The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act, specifically chapter 8 of title 5 of the United States Code, to nullify the rule. The rule was issued on September 6, 2024, and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) has determined it to be a rule under the Congressional Review Act.
The resolution states that the rule shall have no force or effect if the resolution is passed by Congress. The disapproval is based on a record of decision by the USFWS and a letter of opinion from the GAO.
The resolution was introduced in the House of Representatives on July 23, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources.
Expected Effects
If passed, this resolution would prevent the implementation or enforcement of the USFWS's "Barred Owl Management Strategy." This means the existing management practices related to barred owls would continue without the changes proposed in the rule. The specific impacts would depend on the content of the disapproved rule, which is not detailed in this document.
Stakeholders affected by barred owl management, such as timber companies, environmental groups, and landowners, would not be subject to the new regulations outlined in the rule. The Fish and Wildlife service would have to create a new rule.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially avoids unintended consequences of the Barred Owl Management Strategy if Congress believes the rule is flawed.
- Allows for further review and public discourse on the management of barred owls.
- Could protect specific economic interests if the rule negatively impacts them.
- May align with the preferences of certain constituents or interest groups who oppose the rule.
- Reinforces congressional oversight of agency regulations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could hinder efforts to manage barred owls effectively, potentially impacting other species or ecosystems.
- May create uncertainty for stakeholders who rely on clear and consistent regulations.
- Could be perceived as political interference in scientific wildlife management.
- May delay or prevent necessary conservation measures.
- Could lead to litigation and further disputes over barred owl management.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
This resolution aligns with the principle of legislative oversight of executive agencies, as granted to Congress in Article I, Section 1 of the US Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. The Congressional Review Act, under which this resolution is brought, is a mechanism created by Congress to review and potentially disapprove of agency regulations, ensuring that agencies do not overstep their authority.
This action does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or protections. The resolution is a procedural mechanism for Congress to exercise its legislative powers in relation to agency rulemaking.
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).