H.J.Res.78 - 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. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.J.Res.78 is a joint resolution passed by the House of Representatives that disapproves a rule issued by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). The rule in question concerns the endangered species status for the San Francisco Bay-Delta Distinct Population Segment of the Longfin Smelt.
The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify the FWS rule. If enacted, the rule would have no force or effect.
The resolution was passed on May 1, 2025, indicating congressional action to override an agency decision.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect of H.J.Res.78, if enacted, would be to prevent the FWS rule from taking effect. This means the Longfin Smelt would not receive the endangered species protections outlined in the disapproved rule.
This could lead to changes in water management policies and potentially impact agricultural practices in the San Francisco Bay-Delta region. The long-term environmental consequences would depend on the future management of the Longfin Smelt population and its habitat.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces regulatory burdens on water management and agricultural activities in the San Francisco Bay-Delta region.
- May prevent economic impacts associated with endangered species protections, such as restrictions on water usage.
- Could allow for more flexibility in managing water resources for various stakeholders.
- Reinforces congressional oversight of agency rulemaking, ensuring accountability.
- May lead to alternative conservation strategies that are less restrictive.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could negatively impact the Longfin Smelt population and its ecosystem.
- May weaken environmental protections in the San Francisco Bay-Delta region.
- Could lead to legal challenges from environmental groups.
- May undermine the integrity of the Endangered Species Act.
- Potentially harms biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution is an exercise of Congress's legislative powers under Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. The Congressional Review Act, under which this resolution is authorized, is a mechanism for Congress to check the power of the executive branch and ensure agency regulations align with congressional intent.
Disapproving a rule submitted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service falls within Congress's authority to regulate commerce and manage federal lands. The resolution does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or protections.
However, the long-term environmental consequences could potentially raise questions related to the government's responsibility to protect natural resources for future generations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).