Bill Summary
The legislation is a joint resolution passed by both the Senate and House of Representatives that expresses congressional disapproval of a specific rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The rule in question pertains to "National Volatile Organic Compound Emission Standards for Aerosol Coatings" and is categorized as an interim final rule. By passing this resolution, Congress effectively nullifies the EPA's rule, meaning it will have no legal effect or enforcement. This action is in accordance with Chapter 8 of Title 5 of the United States Code, which provides Congress with the authority to disapprove certain federal agency rules.
Possible Impacts
The congressional disapproval of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) rule on National Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Emission Standards for Aerosol Coatings could affect people in several ways:
1. **Increased Air Pollution**: By disapproving the EPA's rule, there may be less stringent regulations on the VOC emissions from aerosol coatings. This could lead to higher levels of air pollutants, potentially affecting the health of individuals, especially vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
2. **Impact on Public Health**: With higher emissions of VOCs, there may be an increase in health issues related to air quality, such as asthma, allergies, and other respiratory diseases. This could result in greater healthcare costs for individuals and families, as well as an increased burden on public health systems.
3. **Economic Consequences for Manufacturers**: Aerosol coating manufacturers may face less regulatory pressure, which could lead to short-term cost savings. However, this could also result in long-term economic consequences if public health concerns lead to backlash from consumers, regulatory changes, or increased lawsuits related to environmental health issues. Additionally, businesses that prioritize sustainable practices may find it challenging to compete in a less regulated market.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[S.J. Res. 73 Introduced in Senate (IS)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
1st Session
S. J. RES. 73
Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5,
United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental
Protection Agency relating to ``National Volatile Organic Compound
Emission Standards for Aerosol Coatings: Interim Final Rule''.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
August 1, 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 ``National Volatile Organic Compound
Emission Standards for Aerosol Coatings: Interim Final Rule''.
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
``National Volatile Organic Compound Emission Standards for Aerosol
Coatings: Interim Final Rule'' (90 Fed. Reg. 28904 (July 2, 2025)), and
such rule shall have no force or effect.
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