Summary of HRES 354

Bill Number: HRES 354

Title: Providing for consideration of various joint resolutions disapproving rules related to environmental regulations and wildlife protection.

Introduced: April 28, 2025

Status: Amended and passed in the House on April 29, 2025.

Purpose and Intent

HRES 354 is a resolution that facilitates the consideration of five joint resolutions (H.J. Res. 60, H.J. Res. 78, H.J. Res. 87, H.J. Res. 88, and H.J. Res. 89) aimed at disapproving specific regulatory actions taken by federal agencies. The intent of this resolution is to allow Congress to exercise its authority under Chapter 8 of Title 5 of the United States Code to reject these rules, which are perceived to impose restrictions on motor vehicle regulations and wildlife protections.

Key Provisions

• Consideration of Joint Resolutions: The resolution provides for the consideration of the following joint resolutions:

  • H.J. Res. 60: Disapproves the National Park Service's rule regarding motor vehicle regulations in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
  • H.J. Res. 78: Disapproves the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's rule concerning the endangered species status of the Longfin Smelt in the San Francisco Bay-Delta.
  • H.J. Res. 87: Disapproves the EPA's rule on California's motor vehicle and engine pollution control standards, including provisions for heavy-duty vehicles and zero-emission technologies.
  • H.J. Res. 88: Disapproves the EPA's rule on California's Advanced Clean Cars II standards.
  • H.J. Res. 89: Disapproves the EPA's "Omnibus" Low NOX regulation concerning pollution control standards for motor vehicles and nonroad engines.

• Closed Rules: Each joint resolution will be considered under a closed rule, meaning no amendments can be made during the debate.

• Debate and Voting: The resolution allows for one hour of general debate on each joint resolution, equally divided between the chair and the ranking minority member of the relevant committee. Each joint resolution will also have one motion to recommit.

• Waivers: The resolution waives all points of order against the consideration of each joint resolution, allowing them to be debated without procedural hindrances.

Impact

The passage of HRES 354 and the subsequent disapproval of the specified rules could significantly affect environmental regulations, particularly in California, where stricter emissions standards are often implemented. The resolution may impact:
- Environmental Agencies: The National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and EPA will be directly affected as their rules may be overturned.
- Wildlife Protection: The disapproval of the Longfin Smelt's endangered status could have implications for conservation efforts in the San Francisco Bay-Delta.
- Automotive Industry: Changes to California's vehicle emission standards could influence manufacturers and consumers, particularly regarding the adoption of clean technologies.

Procedural Timeline

• April 28, 2025: HRES 354 introduced and placed on the House Calendar.
• April 29, 2025:
  • The House debated the resolution and agreed to it by a recorded vote of 216-208.
  • The previous question was ordered, allowing for a swift vote without further debate.

This resolution represents a significant legislative effort to challenge existing environmental regulations, reflecting ongoing debates about the balance between regulatory oversight and industry flexibility.