Midnight Rules Relief Act of 2025
The bill could significantly change how regulations are managed and reviewed at the federal level, particularly in the tense transition periods of presidential administrations. By allowing for the disapproval of multiple rules at once, it aims to protect Congress's ability to oversee and challenge executive branch actions that are perceived as temporary or excessive. Should this bill pass, it would likely promote a larger role for Congress in influencing the regulatory landscape following elections and could catalyze disputes between the legislative and executive branches regarding authority and governance.
SB164, known as the Midnight Rules Relief Act of 2025, seeks to amend Chapter 8 of Title 5, United States Code, to streamline the process for Congress to disapprove of 'midnight rules'—regulations enacted by outgoing administrations during their final days in office. The bill allows for en bloc consideration of these rules, meaning that Congress can collectively vote on multiple disapproval resolutions rather than addressing them one by one. The proponents argue that this will enhance legislative efficiency and help prevent the imposition of controversial regulations that may not have broad support.
Debate around SB164 indicates that while advocates claim it safeguards against abrupt regulatory changes set by outgoing administrations, critics may contend that it undermines regulatory safeguards that are necessary for public protection. The process of en bloc consideration might be seen as a way to bypass thorough scrutiny of individual rules, raising concerns about accountability and governance. This dual perspective raises questions about the balance of power between the legislative and executive branches and the implications for public policy during transitions of power.