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 "Emissions Budget and Allowance Allocations for Indiana Under the Revised Cross-State Air Pollution Rule Update".

119th Congress Introduced by Sheldon Whitehouse

SJRES 60 aims to disapprove an EPA rule on emissions budgets for Indiana, impacting air quality regulations and potentially influencing future congressional actions.

Motion to proceed to consideration of measure rejected in Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 47 - 51. Record Vote Number: 520. (consideration: CR S6631)

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SJRES 60
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 "Emissions Budget and Allowance Allocations for Indiana Under the Revised Cross-State Air Pollution Rule Update."
Introduced: June 27, 2025
Status: Motion to proceed to consideration of measure rejected in Senate by Yea-Nay Vote (47 - 51). Record Vote Number: 520.
Sponsor: Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (primary)

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SJRES 60 is to disapprove a specific rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning emissions budgets and allowance allocations for the state of Indiana. This rule is part of the Revised Cross-State Air Pollution Rule Update, which aims to address air quality and pollution control across state lines.

Key Provisions

Disapproval of EPA Rule: The resolution explicitly states that Congress disapproves the EPA rule related to emissions budgets and allowance allocations for Indiana, as published in the Federal Register (90 Fed. Reg. 21423) on May 20, 2025.

No Force or Effect: If passed, the resolution would render the specified EPA rule without force or effect, effectively nullifying its implementation.

Impact

Affected Parties: The resolution primarily impacts the regulatory framework governing air quality in Indiana. It may also affect stakeholders such as:

State environmental agencies
Industries subject to emissions regulations
Public health advocates and organizations concerned with air quality

Broader Implications: The disapproval could set a precedent for future congressional actions against EPA regulations, potentially influencing how air quality standards are established and enforced across the United States.

Legislative Timeline

June 27, 2025: SJRES 60 was introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.

August 1, 2025: The resolution was placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar and the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works was discharged by petition.

September 16, 2025: A motion to proceed to consideration of the measure was rejected in the Senate by a vote of 47 - 51.

Conclusion

SJRES 60 represents a significant legislative effort to challenge and potentially overturn a specific EPA regulation concerning air pollution in Indiana. The rejection of the motion to proceed indicates that the resolution may face significant hurdles in the Senate, reflecting the contentious nature of environmental regulation and congressional oversight.

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