A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Air Plan Approval; South Dakota; Regional Haze Plan for the Second Implementation Period".
A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Air Plan Approval; South Dakota; Regional Haze Plan for the Second Implementation Period".
Plain Language Summary
# Summary of SJRES 86 **What the Bill Would Do:** This resolution would overturn an EPA rule that approved South Dakota's plan to reduce air pollution that affects visibility in national parks and wilderness areas. If passed, it would nullify the EPA's August 2025 approval of South Dakota's "regional haze plan," which outlines how the state intends to improve air quality and visibility in protected areas like national parks. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects South Dakota's environmental regulations and could impact federal oversight of the state's air quality standards.
It may also affect national parks and wilderness areas in South Dakota and potentially neighboring states, as well as industries and entities regulated under the state's air quality rules. **Current Status:** SJRES 86 is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by Congress. It was introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).
CRS Official Summary
This joint resolution nullifies the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) final rule titled Air Plan Approval; South Dakota; Regional Haze Plan for the Second Implementation Period (90 Fed. Reg. 41893) and published on August 28, 2025. The final rule approved South Dakota’s revision to its state implementation plan to satisfy the requirements of the EPA’s regional haze rule. (The regional haze rule requires states to take actions to improve visibility in national parks and wilderness areas.)
Latest Action
Motion to proceed to consideration of measure rejected in Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 43 - 50. Record Vote Number: 4.