The implications of SB4485 are significant for the regulatory landscape in the United States. By making it easier for Congress to disapprove multiple midnight rules simultaneously, the bill aims to increase legislative oversight over regulations that may be perceived as rushed or politically motivated. This change could lead to a greater potential for repealing regulations viewed unfavorably by the majority in Congress, thereby impacting the enforcement of these regulations across various sectors. This centralization of authority could reshape how regulatory agencies operate and how regulations are instituted or rescinded during transitional periods between administrations.
Summary
SB4485, formally known as the Midnight Rules Relief Act of 2024, is a legislative proposal aimed at adjusting the process of handling 'midnight rules'—regulations issued at the end of a presidential term. The bill seeks to amend Chapter 8 of Title 5 of the United States Code, providing for a more streamlined en bloc consideration of resolutions of disapproval regarding these rules. Specifically, it allows a joint resolution of disapproval to encompass multiple rules issued during the final year of a President's term, consolidating them into a single disapproval measure rather than requiring separate actions for each rule.
Contention
While proponents of SB4485 argue that it enhances accountability and allows for a clearer review process of regulations enacted without thorough scrutiny, critics might contend that it poses a risk of undermining the regulatory framework established to safeguard public interests. There are concerns that this could lead to a reduction in necessary regulations during a critical period when oversight is often needed most. The debate surrounding this bill illustrates a broader struggle between regulatory reform and the maintenance of robust checks on governmental powers, reflecting deeper ideological divisions related to the scope of governmental authority and the legislative process.
Related
Midnight Rules Relief Act of 2023This bill allows Congress to disapprove multiple regulations under one joint resolution of disapproval if the regulations were submitted for review during a portion of the final year of a President's term.Under current law, the Congressional Review Act generally provides for a period of additional review during the succeeding Congress for regulations that were submitted during the last 60 legislative days of the prior Congress. However, each joint resolution may disapprove of only one regulation.
Midnight Rules Relief Act of 2023This bill allows Congress to disapprove multiple regulations under one joint resolution of disapproval if the regulations were submitted for review during a portion of the final year of a President's term.Under current law, the Congressional Review Act generally provides for a period of additional review during the succeeding Congress for regulations that were submitted during the last 60 legislative days of the prior Congress. However, each joint resolution may disapprove of only one regulation.
Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 77) to amend chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, to provide for en bloc consideration in resolutions of disapproval for "midnight rules", and for other purposes.
Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 115) to amend chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, to provide for en bloc consideration in resolutions of disapproval for "midnight rules'', and for other purposes.
Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 8997) making appropriations for energy and water development and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025, and for other purposes, and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 8998) making appropriations for the Department of the Interior, environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025, and for other purposes.