S.J.Res. 19119th CongressIntroduced Feb 13, 2025

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 "Trichloroethylene (TCE); Regulation Under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)".

IntroducedEnvironmental ProtectionMajor

Sponsor: Sen. Kennedy, John [R-LA]
Committees: Environment and Public Works Committee (primary)
Last action: Feb 13, 2025

Bottom line

This resolution is a legislative attempt to block an EPA rule regulating the toxic substance Trichloroethylene (TCE), effectively preventing new federal restrictions on its use.

What it actually does

This joint resolution seeks to nullify a final rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning the regulation of Trichloroethylene (TCE) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). If enacted, it would prevent the EPA's rule, published on December 17, 2024, from taking effect, thereby maintaining the status quo regarding TCE regulation.

Proponents argue

Proponents of this resolution argue that the EPA's rule imposes undue burdens on industries that rely on TCE, potentially leading to job losses and economic disadvantages without sufficient justification. They may contend that existing regulations or industry practices are adequate to manage the risks associated with TCE, or that the EPA's assessment of risk is overstated.

Opponents contend

Opponents of this resolution, who support the EPA's rule, would argue that the rule is essential for protecting public health and the environment from the known hazards of TCE, which is a toxic substance linked to serious health effects. They would assert that congressional disapproval undermines the EPA's scientific findings and its mandate to regulate dangerous chemicals under TSCA, potentially exposing more people to harm.

The bill is extremely short and can be read in seconds, making it highly accessible for any reader to understand its direct legislative intent.

Section 1

Disapproval of EPA Trichloroethylene (TCE) Rule

prominently featuredstraightforward

This provision explicitly states that Congress disapproves of the final rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding the regulation of Trichloroethylene (TCE) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), which was published in the Federal Register on December 17, 2024 (89 Fed. Reg. 102568). It further declares that this EPA rule shall have no force or effect, effectively nullifying it.

GroupImpactMechanismScale

GroupIndustries using Trichloroethylene (TCE)ImpactRelief from new regulatory burdensMechanismPrevents the EPA from implementing new restrictions on TCE use, manufacturing, and processing.ScalePotentially significant for sectors like manufacturing, dry cleaning, and degreasing operations that utilize TCE.

GroupWorkers and communities exposed to TCEImpactContinued or increased exposure riskMechanismWithout the EPA rule, protections against TCE exposure might not be strengthened, potentially leading to ongoing health risks.ScaleBroad, affecting individuals in workplaces and residential areas near industrial sites.

GroupEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)ImpactLoss of regulatory authority and setback to public health missionMechanismThe agency's scientific findings and regulatory efforts regarding TCE are nullified by congressional action.ScaleSignificant for the agency's TSCA program and its ability to regulate toxic substances.

Supporters argue

Supporters of the resolution argue that the EPA's rule is overly broad and imposes unnecessary economic hardships on businesses that rely on TCE for critical industrial processes, potentially leading to job losses and reduced competitiveness. They may also contend that the EPA's risk assessment for TCE is flawed or that less stringent measures are sufficient to protect public health.

Critics contend

Opponents of the resolution argue that TCE is a known carcinogen and neurotoxin, and the EPA's rule is a necessary step to protect public health and the environment from its severe risks. They assert that blocking the rule would prioritize corporate profits over the safety of workers and communities, undermining the intent of TSCA to regulate dangerous chemicals.

Tradeoffs

The resolution highlights a tension between economic interests of industries using TCE and public health concerns regarding exposure to a toxic chemical. It also reflects a broader debate about the scope of federal regulatory authority versus congressional oversight.

About this analysis. AI-Generated from the official bill text and available committee reports. Gaps in available data are noted explicitly. Verify important details with the official Congress.gov record.