Summary of SJRES 61
Bill Overview
Bill Number: SJRES 61
Title: A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Land Management relating to "Miles City Field Office Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan Amendment".
Introduced: July 10, 2025
Status: Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources discharged, by petition, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 802(c).
Sponsors:
- Primary: Steve Daines
- Cosponsor: Tim Sheehy
Related Bills: HJRES 104 (companion)
Purpose and Intent
The primary purpose of SJRES 61 is to formally disapprove a rule issued by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) concerning the Miles City Field Office Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan Amendment. This resolution aims to negate the effects of the BLM's rule, which was issued on November 20, 2024, and is deemed a "rule" under the Congressional Review Act.
Key Provisions
- Disapproval of BLM Rule: The resolution states that Congress disapproves the BLM's rule related to the Miles City Field Office, effectively rendering it without force or effect.
- Reference to GAO Opinion: The resolution references a letter of opinion from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) dated June 25, 2025, which confirms that the BLM's record of decision and resource management plan amendment qualifies as a rule under the Congressional Review Act.
Impact
- Affected Entities: The disapproval of the BLM's rule may impact stakeholders involved in land management, resource extraction, and environmental conservation in the Miles City area. This includes local communities, businesses, and environmental groups.
- Regulatory Environment: If passed, this resolution would alter the regulatory landscape established by the BLM's amendment, potentially affecting land use policies and resource management strategies in the region.
Legislative Timeline
- July 10, 2025: Bill introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
- October 7, 2025: The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources was discharged from further consideration of the bill by petition.
- October 7, 2025: The bill was placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders (Calendar No. 179).
Conclusion
SJRES 61 represents a significant legislative effort to disapprove a specific rule from the Bureau of Land Management, reflecting ongoing debates over land management practices and resource allocation in the United States. The resolution's progress through the Senate indicates a concerted effort by its sponsors to challenge the BLM's authority in this context.
