Us Congress House Bill HJR152

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/22/24
• Refer: 5/22/24
• 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 "Hazardous and Solid Waste Management System: Disposal of Coal Combustion Residuals From Electric Utilities; Legacy CCR Surface Impoundments".

Impact

If HJR152 passes, it would mean the EPA's rule would have no force or effect, potentially affecting the management and disposal of hazardous waste resulting from coal combustion. This could lead to significant implications for electric utilities that generate such waste, as the regulation would no longer provide guidelines regarding its disposal. Critics of the EPA's rule argue that it imposes excessive burdens on the industry, while proponents express concerns about environmental safety and public health.

Summary

HJR152 is a joint resolution that seeks to disapprove a specific rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning the hazardous and solid waste management system related to the disposal of coal combustion residuals from electric utilities. The resolution falls under chapter 8 of title 5 of the United States Code, which allows Congress to express its disapproval of federal regulations. The resolution's main goal is to nullify the EPA's recent rule regarding legacy CCR surface impoundments as detailed in 89 Fed. Reg. 38950.

Contention

The bill has generated notable discussion, particularly regarding the tension between environmental regulation and industry interests. Supporters of the disapproval resolution, including several Republican representatives, argue that the EPA's regulations are overly restrictive, potentially harming the economic viability of the coal industry. Conversely, environmental advocates and some Democratic legislators express worry that overturning these regulations could lead to increased environmental hazards and health risks associated with improper waste disposal, particularly in communities near electric utilities.