Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Veterans Affairs relating to Reproductive Health Services.
Summary
This joint resolution aims to disapprove a rule submitted by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) concerning "Reproductive Health Services," as detailed in the Federal Register (90 Fed. Reg. 61310, December 31, 2025). The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA), codified in chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, which allows Congress to review and potentially overturn agency regulations. If passed, the resolution would nullify the VA's rule, preventing it from taking effect.
Expected Effects
If the resolution passes, the VA rule regarding reproductive health services will be invalidated. This means the policies and procedures outlined in the rule would not be implemented or enforced. The immediate effect would be a return to the status quo prior to the rule's enactment, pending further action by the VA or Congress.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially aligns with the views of those who oppose the expansion of reproductive health services by the VA.
- Reinforces congressional oversight of executive agency rulemaking.
- May prevent the implementation of policies that some believe exceed the VA's statutory authority.
- Could lead to a reassessment and potentially more transparent rulemaking process regarding VA healthcare policies.
- Allows for further debate and consideration of the issues surrounding reproductive health services for veterans.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May limit access to reproductive health services for veterans, particularly in areas where such services are not readily available.
- Could disproportionately affect female veterans and those in underserved communities.
- Creates uncertainty regarding the scope of healthcare services provided by the VA.
- May lead to legal challenges and further political polarization.
- Disrupts the VA's ability to implement comprehensive healthcare policies based on its expertise.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution's constitutional alignment hinges on the balance of power between the legislative and executive branches. Article I, Section 1 vests all legislative powers in Congress, implying the power to oversee and check executive agency actions. The Congressional Review Act, which this resolution invokes, is intended to ensure such oversight. However, the specific policy content of the VA rule itself may raise constitutional questions related to individual rights and healthcare access, depending on its provisions.
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).