Bills/H.J.Res. 79

Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Review of Final Rule Reclassification of Major Sources as Area Sources Under Section 112 of the Clean Air Act".

Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Review of Final Rule Reclassification of Major Sources as Area Sources Under Section 112 of the Clean Air Act".

In CommitteeEnvironmentHouseHouse Joint Resolution · 119th Congress
Bill Progress · House
Introduced
Committee
Passed House
Passed Senate
Passed Both
Signed

Plain Language Summary

# Summary of HJRES 79 **What the Bill Does:** This bill would overturn an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule from September 2024 that requires certain industrial facilities to maintain strict emission standards even if they downsize their operations enough to be reclassified as "area sources" rather than "major sources." Specifically, the rule keeps facilities that emit persistent and bioaccumulative hazardous air pollutants (substances that accumulate in the environment and living organisms) subject to major source pollution controls. The bill uses a congressional procedure called the Congressional Review Act, which allows Congress to block recent regulations without requiring the President's signature. **Who It Affects:** Industrial facilities that emit certain toxic air pollutants—potentially including chemical plants, manufacturers, and other industrial operations—would be most directly affected. Environmental groups and communities near these facilities could be impacted by any resulting changes to air quality standards. States and the EPA would also be involved in implementation. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced in the House by Rep.

Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) and is currently in committee. It has not yet been voted on by the full House. The bill's supporters likely argue the EPA rule is burdensome to industry, while opponents would likely argue it protects public health and the environment.

CRS Official Summary

This joint resolution nullifies the Environmental Protection Agency final rule titled Review of Final Rule Reclassification of Major Sources as Area Sources Under Section 112 of the Clean Air Act (89 Fed. Reg. 73293) and published on September 10, 2024. Among other elements, the rule requires sources of persistent and bioaccumulative hazardous air pollutants to continue to comply with certain major source emission standards under the Clean Air Act even if the sources reclassify as area sources.

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Latest Action

March 27, 2025

Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR H1328-1329)

Sponsor

3 cosponsors

Key Dates

Introduced
March 24, 2025
Last Updated
March 27, 2025
Read Full Text on Congress.gov →
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