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HJRES 44

Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for Lead and Copper: Improvements (LCRI)".

119th Congress Introduced by Andrew Clyde

HJRES 44 allows Congress to disapprove EPA's rule improving lead and copper drinking water standards, potentially jeopardizing public health and safety initiatives.

Introduced in House
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Bill Summary · HJRES 44

Summary of HJRES 44

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HJRES 44
  • Title: Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for Lead and Copper: Improvements (LCRI)".
  • Status: Introduced in House
  • Introduced Date: February 12, 2025
  • Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HJRES 44 aims to provide Congress with the authority to disapprove a specific rule proposed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning improvements to the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for Lead and Copper. The intent of this resolution is to challenge and potentially nullify the EPA's regulatory changes aimed at enhancing the safety of drinking water concerning lead and copper contamination.

Key Provisions

  • Disapproval Mechanism: The resolution invokes the Congressional Review Act, allowing Congress to disapprove of federal regulations. If passed, it would effectively nullify the EPA's rule on drinking water regulations.
  • Focus on Lead and Copper: The rule in question is designed to improve the management of lead and copper levels in drinking water, which are critical for public health, especially in communities with aging infrastructure.

Impact

  • Public Health: If the resolution passes, it could delay or prevent the implementation of new regulations intended to reduce lead and copper levels in drinking water, potentially impacting public health initiatives aimed at ensuring safe drinking water.
  • Environmental Regulation: The resolution reflects ongoing debates regarding the balance between regulatory oversight and industry compliance, particularly in the context of environmental protection and public health.
  • Stakeholders Affected:
    • Communities: Residents, especially in areas with older plumbing systems, may be directly affected by changes in drinking water safety standards.
    • EPA: The agency's authority to enforce new regulations would be challenged, impacting its regulatory framework.
    • Legislators: Members of Congress will need to consider the implications of disapproving regulations that aim to protect public health.

Legislative Actions

  • Referral: The bill was referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce on the same day it was introduced (February 12, 2025).
  • Next Steps: The committee will review the resolution, and further actions will depend on the committee's recommendations and subsequent votes in the House.

Related Bills

  • HJRES 18: This bill is noted as a companion to HJRES 44, indicating that it may address similar issues or provide an alternative approach to the same regulatory concerns.

In summary, HJRES 44 represents a significant legislative effort to challenge the EPA's proposed improvements to drinking water regulations concerning lead and copper, with potential implications for public health and environmental policy.

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

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