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 Senate Joint Resolution (S.J. Res. 103) aims to disapprove a rule issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) concerning "Reproductive Health Services." The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA), codified in chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, to nullify the VA's rule. If passed, the resolution would prevent the VA rule from taking effect.
The rule in question, published in the Federal Register (90 Fed. Reg. 61310), relates to reproductive health services provided by the VA. The resolution seeks to overturn this rule, effectively blocking its implementation.
The resolution was introduced in the Senate on January 27, 2026, and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs for further consideration.
Expected Effects
If the resolution is passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives and is not vetoed by the President, the VA rule regarding "Reproductive Health Services" will be invalidated. This means the VA would be prohibited from implementing the policies outlined in the disapproved rule.
The practical effect would depend on the specifics of the VA rule, but it could impact veterans' access to certain reproductive health services. The resolution's passage would maintain the status quo prior to the rule's enactment.
Potential Benefits
- Could prevent potential overreach by the Department of Veterans Affairs, ensuring that any changes to healthcare policy are subject to congressional oversight.
- May align with the views of constituents who oppose the expansion of reproductive health services provided by the VA.
- Could reinforce the principle of congressional authority over executive agency actions, as outlined in the Congressional Review Act.
- Could lead to a more thorough and deliberate consideration of reproductive health policies affecting veterans.
- May prevent the implementation of policies that some believe infringe upon religious or moral objections.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could limit veterans' access to reproductive health services, potentially impacting their healthcare options and well-being.
- May create uncertainty and confusion regarding the scope of healthcare services available to veterans.
- Could be perceived as a politically motivated action that interferes with the VA's ability to provide comprehensive care.
- May disproportionately affect female veterans or those in need of specialized reproductive care.
- Could set a precedent for congressional interference in executive agency rulemaking, potentially disrupting the administrative process.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution's use of the Congressional Review Act (CRA) aligns with Congress's legislative powers as defined in Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. The CRA provides a mechanism for Congress to review and disapprove of agency rules, ensuring that executive actions are subject to congressional oversight.
However, the specific VA rule being targeted may raise constitutional questions related to individual rights and healthcare access. The resolution's impact on these rights would need to be carefully considered in light of relevant constitutional protections.
Amendment I, regarding religious freedom, could be relevant if the VA rule impacts individuals' ability to exercise their religious beliefs. The resolution's impact on this freedom would need to be considered.
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).