Us Congress House Bill HJR92

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/26/23
• Refer: 9/26/23
• Refer: 1/11/24

Caption

Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Food and Nutrition Service relating to "Application of Bostock v. Clayton County to Program Discrimination Complaint Processing-Policy Update".

Impact

If HJR92 is enacted, it would negate the FNS's current interpretation of program discrimination in light of Bostock v. Clayton County. This Supreme Court ruling expanded protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, thereby influencing how discriminatory complaints are handled within federally funded programs. The resolution's approval would signify a congressional pushback against these expanded civil rights protections, potentially leading to a limitation in the enforcement of anti-discrimination policies within nutrition assistance programs.

Summary

HJR92 is a joint resolution introduced in the 118th Congress aimed at disapproving a rule enacted by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). This rule pertains to the application of the Supreme Court's decision in Bostock v. Clayton County with respect to program discrimination complaint processing. The resolution seeks to prevent this rule from having any force or effect, essentially undermining the FNS's efforts to align its policies with federal civil rights protections as interpreted by the judiciary.

Contention

Debate surrounding HJR92 may center on civil rights implications and the extent to which Congress should exert its authority to disapprove of regulations that aim to protect marginalized groups. Advocates for the resolution argue that the original rule oversteps the FNS's mandate and could impose unfair burdens on program operators. Conversely, opponents contend that disapproving the regulation would not only roll back essential protections but also signal a legislative regression in the fight against discrimination, undermining the progress made since Bostock.