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SJRES 119

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 "Air Plan Approval; Montana; Regional Haze Plan for the Second Implementation Period".

119th Congress Introduced by Sheldon Whitehouse

Congressional resolution to overturn EPA's Montana regional haze air quality rule, affecting emissions controls and national park visibility standards.

Introduced in Senate
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SJRES 119

Legislative bill overview

This joint resolution seeks to disapprove and nullify an EPA rule concerning Montana's regional haze air quality plan for the second implementation period under the Clean Air Act. The measure uses the Congressional Review Act (CRA), a procedural mechanism that allows Congress to overturn federal regulations with a simple majority vote if passed within 60 legislative days of the rule's issuance.

Why is this important

Regional haze rules directly affect visibility at national parks and wilderness areas, primarily through controls on power plant and industrial emissions. The outcome determines whether Montana must implement stricter air pollution controls affecting energy production, industrial operations, and related economic activity in the state, while also influencing public health and environmental quality across the region.

Potential points of contention

  • State vs. Federal Authority: Whether EPA should dictate specific air quality standards to states or allow more state-level discretion in implementation approaches
  • Economic Impact: Industry concerns about compliance costs versus environmental advocates' concerns about weakened pollution controls affecting visibility and public health
  • Procedural Timing: Whether the 60-legislative-day CRA window is being used appropriately or if it circumvents normal rulemaking review processes that allow public input and scientific deliberation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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