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 Record of Decision for the Barred Owl Management Strategy; Washington, Oregon, and California.
Summary
This document is a joint resolution introduced in the Senate to disapprove a rule submitted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) regarding the "Record of Decision for the Barred Owl Management Strategy; Washington, Oregon, and California." The resolution seeks to nullify the FWS rule, which was issued on September 6, 2024. The resolution cites the Congressional Review Act as the basis for disapproval.
Expected Effects
If passed, this resolution would prevent the FWS's Barred Owl Management Strategy from taking effect. This could lead to a reevaluation of the strategy or a continuation of existing management practices. The resolution aims to exert congressional oversight over agency rulemaking.
Potential Benefits
- Could allow for a revised management strategy that better balances environmental and economic concerns.
- May address concerns raised by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) regarding the rule's compliance with the Congressional Review Act.
- Could lead to a more transparent and accountable rulemaking process by the FWS.
- Potentially protects specific interests within Washington, Oregon, and California that oppose the current strategy.
- Reinforces congressional oversight of executive agency actions.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could disrupt ongoing efforts to manage the barred owl population and its impact on other species.
- May create uncertainty for stakeholders involved in wildlife management in the affected states.
- Could be viewed as an overreach of congressional authority into scientific or technical matters.
- May delay or prevent necessary conservation actions, potentially harming native species.
- Could set a precedent for increased congressional interference in agency rulemaking, leading to policy instability.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution invokes Chapter 8 of Title 5 of the United States Code, which outlines the Congressional Review Act (CRA). The CRA allows Congress to review and potentially disapprove of agency rules. Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution vests all legislative powers in Congress, which includes the power to oversee and check the actions of the executive branch. This action appears to be an exercise of that power.
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).