Summary of SJRES 47

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SJRES 47

Title: A 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 "California State Motor Vehicle and Engine and Nonroad Engine Pollution Control Standards; The 'Omnibus' Low NOx Regulation; Waiver of Preemption; Notice of Decision".

Status: Introduced in Senate

Introduced Date: April 04, 2025

Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

SJRES 47 aims to disapprove a specific rule established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning California's motor vehicle and engine pollution control standards. The resolution seeks to negate the "Omnibus" Low NOx Regulation, which is designed to regulate nitrogen oxide emissions from vehicles and engines in California. By disapproving this rule, Congress intends to prevent its implementation and maintain existing federal standards.

Key Provisions

• Disapproval of EPA Rule: The resolution explicitly states that Congress disapproves the EPA's rule regarding California's pollution control standards, which was published in the Federal Register (90 Fed. Reg. 643) on January 6, 2025.
• No Force or Effect: If passed, the resolution would ensure that the disapproved rule has no legal force or effect, effectively blocking its enforcement.

Affected Parties

• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): The agency's authority to enforce the specific pollution control standards in California would be curtailed.
• California State Government: The state may lose the ability to implement its stricter vehicle emissions standards, which are often seen as more progressive than federal regulations.
• Automobile Manufacturers: Companies operating in California may face changes in compliance requirements depending on the outcome of this resolution.
• Environmental Advocates: Groups focused on air quality and climate change may oppose the resolution, as it could hinder efforts to reduce vehicle emissions.

Legislative Actions

• April 04, 2025: The resolution was read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works for further consideration.

Sponsors

The resolution is sponsored by:
- Primary Sponsor: Markwayne Mullin
- Cosponsors: Jerry Moran, Tommy Tuberville, Deb Fischer, James C. Justice, Mike Lee, James Lankford, Shelley Moore Capito, John Kennedy, Mike Crapo, Dan Sullivan, Kevin Cramer, Cynthia M. Lummis, Pete Ricketts.

Related Legislation

• HJRES 89: This is a companion bill in the House of Representatives that addresses similar disapproval of the EPA rule.

Conclusion

SJRES 47 represents a significant legislative effort to challenge and potentially overturn California's vehicle emissions standards as set forth by the EPA. The resolution reflects ongoing debates over environmental regulations and state versus federal authority in setting pollution control measures. The outcome of this resolution could have lasting implications for air quality standards and vehicle emissions regulations in the United States.