Us Congress House Bill HJR150

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/17/24
• Refer: 5/17/24
• Refer: 5/24/24

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 "National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Coal- and Oil-Fired Electric Utility Steam Generating Units Review of the Residual Risk and Technology Review".

Impact

The resolution indicates a significant stance on environmental regulations, particularly concerning the energy sector, which often finds itself at the intersection of environmental sustainability and economic concerns. By disapproving this EPA rule, the Congress signals a preference for looser emission regulations, which could have broader implications for air quality standards, as well as the operational standards for energy producers that rely heavily on coal and oil as fuel sources. This could potentially benefit these industries in terms of reduced compliance costs and regulatory burdens, stimulating their operations in both the short and long term.

Summary

HJR150 is a joint resolution aimed at providing congressional disapproval of a specific rule set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants related to coal- and oil-fired electric utility steam generating units. The resolution asserts that the rule, which involves a review of residual risk and technology standards, should not be enforced and shall have no legal force or effect. The legislative action exemplifies Congress's power to intervene in regulatory processes governed by federal agencies under the Administrative Procedure Act.

Contention

The proposal surrounding HJR150 is contentious, especially among environmental advocacy groups and those prioritizing clean air initiatives. Proponents of the resolution may argue that current emission standards are overly stringent and stifle economic growth and job creation within the fossil fuel industry. Conversely, opponents fear that weakening these regulations could lead to increased pollution levels and adversely impact public health and the environment. The debate encapsulates larger conversations regarding climate change, and energy policy reforms, highlighting diverging interests between economic development and environmental preservation.