Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Land Management relating to Coastal Plain Oil and Gas Leasing Program Record of Decision.

Summary

This joint resolution aims to disapprove a rule submitted by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) concerning the Coastal Plain Oil and Gas Leasing Program Record of Decision. The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to potentially nullify the BLM's decision. The record of decision was issued on December 9, 2024.

Expected Effects

If passed, the resolution would prevent the BLM's rule regarding oil and gas leasing in the Coastal Plain from taking effect. This would halt any immediate plans for oil and gas development under that specific record of decision. The future of oil and gas leasing in the area would then be subject to further review or new rulemaking.

Potential Benefits

  • Potentially preserves the Coastal Plain environment.
  • May allow for further environmental impact studies.
  • Could lead to alternative energy solutions being explored.
  • Supports the will of Congress to review executive agency actions.
  • Reinforces the role of the Government Accountability Office.

Potential Disadvantages

  • May hinder energy independence efforts.
  • Could lead to job losses in the oil and gas industry.
  • Potentially reduces government revenue from leasing.
  • May increase reliance on foreign energy sources.
  • Could create uncertainty for businesses planning to invest in the region.

Constitutional Alignment

The resolution invokes Congress's power to review and disapprove agency rules under the Congressional Review Act, which is derived from its legislative powers granted in Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution. This section vests all legislative powers in Congress. The resolution is an exercise of legislative oversight, ensuring that executive branch actions align with congressional intent.

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).