Terminating the national emergency declared with respect to energy.
Summary
This document is a joint resolution (S.J. Res. 71) introduced in the Senate to terminate the national emergency related to energy, which was declared by the President on January 20, 2025, through Executive Order 14156. The resolution cites the National Emergencies Act as the legal basis for the termination. The resolution was introduced by Mr. Kaine and Mr. Heinrich and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Expected Effects
If passed, this resolution would end the President's declared national emergency concerning energy. This would remove any special powers or authorities granted to the executive branch under the National Emergencies Act related to the energy sector. The practical effects would depend on what specific actions were taken under the emergency declaration.
Potential Benefits
- Restores normal legislative and executive balance regarding energy policy.
- Limits executive power, reinforcing congressional authority.
- May reduce market distortions caused by emergency measures.
- Could lead to a more transparent and predictable energy policy environment.
- Potentially reduces the risk of executive overreach in the energy sector.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could hinder rapid responses to genuine energy crises.
- May limit the government's ability to address unforeseen energy supply disruptions.
- Potentially slows down the implementation of critical energy initiatives.
- Might reduce the flexibility needed to manage energy-related emergencies.
- Could create uncertainty in the energy market if emergency powers were being actively used.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the principle of checks and balances enshrined in the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 1, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. By terminating a national emergency declared by the President, Congress reasserts its role in shaping energy policy. The National Emergencies Act itself is a creation of Congress, designed to provide a framework for executive action during times of crisis while maintaining congressional oversight.
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).