This resolution provides for the House of Representatives to consider the following measures:H.J. Res.42, Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Energy relating to Energy Conservation Program for Appliance Standards: Certification Requirements, Labeling Requirements, and Enforcement Provisions for Certain Consumer Products and Commercial Equipment; H.J. Res. 61, Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Rubber Tire Manufacturing; andS.J. Res. 11, Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management relating to Protection of Marine Archaeological Resources.Under the resolution, all points of order against consideration of each measure are waived; the measures shall be considered as read; and all points of order against provisions in the measures are waived. The resolution further provides that the previous question shall be considered as ordered on each measure (and any amendment thereto) to final passage without intervening motion except one hour of debate and one motion to recommit.
The implications of HR177 are significant, as it is poised to potentially undermine regulatory protections established by federal agencies. By allowing Congress to disapprove these regulations, the bill promotes a shift toward less stringent oversight in areas such as energy efficiency and air quality. Advocates for disapproval argue that such regulations can be cumbersome for businesses, while opponents contend that reducing such standards could have detrimental effects on public health and environmental safety. The approach taken in HR177 reflects broader political sentiments favoring deregulation and less federal oversight.
House Resolution 177 (HR177) addresses the consideration of three joint resolutions that aim to disapprove certain regulatory rules issued by the Department of Energy (DOE), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management. Specifically, it sets forth the parameters for congressional disapproval under Chapter 8 of Title 5 of the United States Code regarding rules on appliance certification, national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants in tire manufacturing, and protections for marine archaeological resources. The resolution outlines a structured debate process that waives points of order against these resolutions during their consideration in the House of Representatives.
The sentiment surrounding HR177 is divisive. Proponents, predominantly from the Republican side, view the bill favorably as a necessary step to curtail governmental overreach and support business interests. Conversely, many Democrats and environmental advocacy groups express serious concerns about the potential negative consequences of disapproving these important regulations. They argue that HR177 could pave the way for increased pollution and decrease consumer product safety, showcasing a classic conflict between economic interests and public health initiatives.
Notable points of contention include the lack of support from environmental groups who argue that disapproving the EPA's emission standards would exacerbate pollution problems and harm communities that rely on clean air initiatives. Furthermore, there is apprehension regarding the strategy of using HR177 as a vehicle for overturning regulations that not only affect environmental safeguards but also consumer protections linked to energy efficiency and appliance standards. This area of debate indicates a substantive clash of values around government regulation and its impacts on both businesses and public welfare.