Us Congress House Bill HJR177

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/2/24
• Refer: 7/2/24

Caption

Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "New Source Performance Standards for Greenhouse Gas Emissions From New, Modified, and Reconstructed Fossil Fuel-Fired Electric Generating Units; Emission Guidelines for Greenhouse Gas Emissions From Existing Fossil Fuel-Fired Electric Generating Units; and Repeal of the Affordable Clean Energy Rule".

Impact

The potential impact of HJR177 is significant as it seeks to invalidate regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from power plants. If successful, this resolution would essentially allow coal and fossil fuel power plants to continue operating under less stringent emission standards. Proponents argue that disapproving the EPA rule would support energy independence and economic growth by reducing the regulatory burden on power plants. They claim it would protect jobs related to the fossil fuel industry and maintain energy reliability.

Summary

HJR177 is a joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval of a rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This rule pertains to New Source Performance Standards for greenhouse gas emissions from new, modified, and reconstructed fossil fuel-fired electric generating units. It also includes emission guidelines for greenhouse gas emissions from existing fossil fuel-fired units and aims to repeal the Affordable Clean Energy Rule established previously. The resolution reflects a legislative move to overturn regulatory actions taken by the EPA that are viewed as burdensome by certain stakeholders.

Contention

However, there is notable contention surrounding the bill. Advocates for environmental protection criticize the bill as a step backward in efforts to combat climate change, arguing that the repeal of these standards could lead to increased carbon emissions and deteriorate air quality. Environmental groups and some lawmakers see this resolution as a significant rollback of progress made under previous environmental legislation, highlighting the ongoing debate between economic interests and environmental stewardship. The discussions thus reflect a fundamental conflict over energy policy direction in the U.S.