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B 26-0079

Department of Energy and Environment Rulemaking Clarification Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Charles Allen

B 26-0079 - Department of Energy and Environment Rulemaking Clarification Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 OverviewBill Number: B 26-0079 Title: Department of

Act A26-0012 Published in DC Register Vol 72 and Page 002012, Expires on May 21, 2025
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Bill Summary · B 26-0079

B 26-0079 - Department of Energy and Environment Rulemaking Clarification Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2025

Overview

Bill Number: B 26-0079
Title: Department of Energy and Environment Rulemaking Clarification Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2025
Status: Act A26-0012 Published in DC Register Vol 72 and Page 002012, Expires on May 21, 2025
Introduced: February 03, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This emergency legislation amends the District of Columbia's Administrative Procedure Act to clarify the rulemaking process and congressional review requirements for the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE). The bill aims to streamline DOEE's ability to quickly implement new environmental regulations in response to emerging issues or crises.

Key Provisions

  • Exempts DOEE from the standard 30-day congressional review period for new regulations
  • Allows DOEE to implement rules on an emergency basis for up to 120 days without prior congressional approval
  • Requires DOEE to submit emergency rules to Congress within 5 days for potential disapproval
  • Directs DOEE to publish all new rules in the DC Register within 10 days of implementation
  • Mandates DOEE to hold public hearings on emergency rules within 30 days of implementation

Affected Parties and Impacts

This bill primarily impacts the operations of the Department of Energy and Environment, granting them more flexibility to rapidly respond to environmental emergencies through expedited rulemaking. It also affects District residents, businesses, and other stakeholders who will be subject to any new DOEE regulations implemented under this emergency authority.

The reduced congressional review period and ability to bypass standard rulemaking timelines could allow DOEE to act more quickly, but also raises concerns about public transparency and oversight of the department's actions.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

This emergency legislation was introduced on February 3, 2025 and was quickly passed by the DC Council. It was signed into law as Act A26-0012 and published in the DC Register on February 15, 2025. The act will expire and revert to the previous rulemaking requirements on May 21, 2025 unless further extended by the Council.

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

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