Bill Summary
This joint resolution expresses congressional disapproval of a specific rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning the "Air Plan Approval; West Virginia; Regional Haze State Implementation Plan for the Second Implementation Period." By passing this resolution, Congress effectively nullifies the EPA's rule, meaning it will not be enforced or have any legal effect. This action is taken under the procedural authority granted by chapter 8 of title 5 of the United States Code, which allows Congress to disapprove certain federal regulations. The resolution indicates a legislative move to reject the EPA's approach to managing regional haze pollution in West Virginia.
Possible Impacts
Here are three examples of how the disapproval of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) rule regarding the Regional Haze State Implementation Plan for West Virginia could affect people:
1. **Air Quality and Public Health**: The disapproval of the EPA's rule may lead to a deterioration in air quality in West Virginia. Without the implementation of the regional haze plan, emissions from industrial sources and power plants could remain higher than they would under stricter regulations. This could negatively impact public health, leading to increased respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems, and other health concerns among local residents.
2. **Environmental Impact**: The disapproval could hinder efforts to protect and restore natural landscapes in West Virginia, particularly national parks and wilderness areas that suffer from haze caused by air pollution. This can affect biodiversity, wildlife habitats, and the overall ecosystem health, potentially leading to long-term environmental degradation that could impact recreational opportunities and local tourism.
3. **Economic Consequences**: The rejection of the EPA's air quality regulations could have economic implications for the region. While it may provide short-term relief for industries that would face stricter regulations, the long-term effects could include health care costs associated with pollution-related illnesses and potential loss of tourism revenue due to degraded natural attractions. Additionally, failure to comply with federal air quality standards could risk federal funding or lead to further regulatory actions, creating uncertainty for businesses and investors in the area.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[S.J. Res. 64 Introduced in Senate (IS)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
1st Session
S. J. RES. 64
Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5,
United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental
Protection Agency relating to ``Air Plan Approval; West Virginia;
Regional Haze State Implementation Plan for the Second Implementation
Period''.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
July 22, 2025
Mr. Whitehouse introduced the following joint resolution; which was
read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public
Works
_______________________________________________________________________
JOINT RESOLUTION
Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5,
United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental
Protection Agency relating to ``Air Plan Approval; West Virginia;
Regional Haze State Implementation Plan for the Second Implementation
Period''.
Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United
States of America in Congress assembled, That Congress disapproves the
rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to ``Air
Plan Approval; West Virginia; Regional Haze State Implementation Plan
for the Second Implementation Period'' (90 Fed. Reg. 29737 (July 7,
2025)), and such rule shall have no force or effect.
<all>