Us Congress House Bill HJR18

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/25
• Refer: 1/13/25

Caption

This joint resolution nullifies the rule titled National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for Lead and Copper: Improvements (LCRI), which was submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency on October 30, 2024. The rule modifies the regulations under the Safe Drinking Water Act to further reduce lead in drinking water, including by directing water systems to replace all lead and certain galvanized service lines under their control within 10 years.

Impact

If passed, HJR18 would prevent the aforementioned EPA rule from taking effect, thereby delaying any improvements intended to address the issues of lead and copper contamination in drinking water supplies. The resolution indicates that Congress believes the existing regulations or proposed changes are insufficient, potentially compromising the quality of drinking water and public health outcomes. This action illustrates the tension between federal environmental regulations and legislative oversight.

Summary

HJR18 is a joint resolution that seeks to provide congressional disapproval of a specific rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for Lead and Copper. This rule, which aims to improve regulations concerning lead and copper levels in drinking water, has faced opposition that prompted this resolution. The bill is essentially a mechanism for Congress to express its disagreement with the EPA's regulatory approach to water safety and public health.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HJR18 include debates on the importance of stringent water quality regulations versus the perceived regulatory overreach by federal agencies. Supporters of the resolution may argue that it helps to maintain balance and accountability in regulatory actions, while opponents could contend that such a move undermines efforts to safeguard public health against toxic substances commonly found in drinking water sources. This highlights larger themes in American governance regarding the interaction between environmental policy and legislative authority.

Congress_id

119-HJRES-18

Policy_area

Environmental Protection

Introduced_date

2025-01-13