Summary of H.J. Res. 88

Bill Overview

• Bill Number: H.J. Res. 88
• Title: Providing 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 Pollution Control Standards; Advanced Clean Cars II; Waiver of Preemption; Notice of Decision".
• Status: Signed into law by the President on June 12, 2025.
• Introduced: April 2, 2025
• Classification: Joint Resolution

Purpose and Intent

H.J. Res. 88 aims to express congressional disapproval of a specific rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning California's motor vehicle and engine pollution control standards. The resolution effectively nullifies the EPA's rule, which was intended to implement California's "Advanced Clean Cars II" program and grant a waiver of preemption.

Key Provisions

• Disapproval of EPA Rule: The resolution disapproves the EPA rule published in the Federal Register on January 6, 2025 (90 Fed. Reg. 642), stating that the rule shall have no force or effect.
• Legislative Process: The resolution underwent a series of legislative actions, including:
  • Passage in the House of Representatives on May 1, 2025, with a vote of 246-164.
  • Passage in the Senate on May 22, 2025, with a vote of 51-44.
  • Final approval and signing by the President on June 12, 2025.

Impact

• Affected Parties: The resolution primarily impacts the state of California and its ability to enforce its own vehicle emissions standards. It may also affect automobile manufacturers and consumers in California who are subject to these regulations.
• Environmental Implications: By disapproving the EPA's rule, the resolution may hinder California's efforts to implement stricter emissions standards aimed at reducing air pollution and combating climate change.

Procedural Timeline

• April 2, 2025: Introduced in the House and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
• May 1, 2025: Passed in the House.
• May 22, 2025: Passed in the Senate.
• June 6, 2025: Presented to the President.
• June 12, 2025: Signed into law, becoming Public Law No: 119-16.

Sponsors

The resolution was primarily sponsored by John Joyce and had numerous cosponsors, including notable members such as Doug LaMalfa, Kevin Kiley, and Lisa C. McClain.

Related Legislation

• HRES 354: A companion resolution related to the legislative process.
• SJRES 45: Another related joint resolution.

This summary provides a concise overview of H.J. Res. 88, detailing its purpose, key provisions, and the implications of its enactment.