Us Congress Senate Bill SJR99

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/18/24
• Refer: 6/18/24

Caption

A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Council on Environmental Quality relating to "National Environmental Policy Act Implementing Regulations Revisions Phase 2".

Impact

If enacted, SJR99 would effectively prevent the new NEPA regulations from being implemented. This could have significant implications on how environmental reviews are conducted for federal projects, potentially allowing for less oversight and a decrease in public participation. Critics argue that the revisions may undermine environmental protections and limit the federal government's accountability regarding ecological assessments. Advocates of the bill contend that the current revisions may introduce unnecessary complexities and delays in crucial projects, thus necessitating the disapproval.

Summary

SJR99 aims to provide congressional disapproval of the rule submitted by the Council on Environmental Quality concerning the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Implementing Regulations Revisions Phase 2. This joint resolution seeks to ensure that the federal rule, which revises aspects of NEPA, does not come into force. The rationale behind the disapproval is grounded in concerns that the rule may introduce regulatory changes that could impact environmental assessments and public engagement processes associated with federal projects.

Contention

The discussions surrounding SJR99 reveal a distinct divide among legislators. Proponents stress the need for streamlined regulations to facilitate timely project execution and economic growth. They argue that overly stringent environmental assessments can delay important infrastructure projects. Conversely, opponents express concern that disapproving the rule could restrict environmental safeguards, leading to detrimental impacts on communities and ecosystems. This highlights a fundamental tension between environmental stewardship and economic development priorities in the legislative discourse.