Summary of HJRES 78

Bill Information

• Bill Number: HJRES 78
• Title: Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service relating to "Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Endangered Species Status for the San Francisco Bay-Delta Distinct Population Segment of the Longfin Smelt".
• Status: Received in the Senate
• Introduced: March 21, 2025
• Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HJRES 78 aims to disapprove a rule established by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) that designates the San Francisco Bay-Delta distinct population segment of the longfin smelt as an endangered species. The resolution seeks to nullify the rule, thereby preventing it from having any legal effect.

Key Provisions

• Disapproval of Rule: The resolution explicitly states that Congress disapproves the USFWS rule regarding the longfin smelt, which was published in the Federal Register on July 30, 2024 (89 Fed. Reg. 61029).
• No Legal Force: If passed, the rule will have no force or effect, effectively reversing the endangered species status for this population segment.

Affected Parties

• Wildlife and Environmental Impact: The disapproval of the endangered species status could have significant implications for the longfin smelt population and its habitat in the San Francisco Bay-Delta region.
• Stakeholders: The resolution may affect various stakeholders, including environmental groups, local fisheries, and industries reliant on water resources in the region.

Legislative Actions

• House Passage: The resolution passed in the House on May 1, 2025, with a vote of 216 in favor and 195 against.
• Senate Consideration: As of May 5, 2025, the resolution has been received in the Senate for further consideration.
• Debate and Rules: The resolution was debated for one hour in the House, and it was considered under a closed rule, which limited amendments and further discussion.

Sponsors

The resolution is sponsored by:
- Primary Sponsor: Doug LaMalfa
- Cosponsors:
- Darrell Issa
- Tom McClintock
- Vince Fong
- Young Kim
- Ken Calvert
- Kevin Kiley
- David G. Valadao
- Jay Obernolte

Related Bills

• HRES 354: This resolution is related to other joint resolutions (H.J. Res. 60, H.J. Res. 78, H.J. Res. 87, H.J. Res. 88, and H.J. Res. 89) that were considered together in the House.

Conclusion

HJRES 78 represents a significant legislative effort to challenge the endangered species designation for the longfin smelt, reflecting ongoing debates about environmental regulation and resource management in the San Francisco Bay-Delta area. The outcome of this resolution could have lasting effects on local ecosystems and stakeholder interests.