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 "California State Nonroad Engine Pollution Control Standards; Commercial Harbor Craft Regulations; Notice of Decision".
- Sponsor
- Sen. Moreno, Bernie [R-OH]
- Committees
- Environment and Public Works Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Aug 6, 2026
Bottom line
This resolution aims to overturn an EPA rule that approved California's nonroad engine pollution control standards for commercial harbor craft, effectively preventing California from enforcing stricter emissions regulations for these vessels.
What it actually does
This joint resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to disapprove a specific rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The rule in question pertains to "California State Nonroad Engine Pollution Control Standards; Commercial Harbor Craft Regulations; Notice of Decision" (90 Fed. Reg. 1998 (January 10, 2025)). If enacted, this resolution would nullify the EPA's rule, preventing it from taking effect and potentially blocking California's ability to implement its own emissions standards for commercial harbor craft.
Proponents argue
Supporters of this resolution argue that the EPA's approval of California's rule imposes an undue regulatory burden on the commercial harbor craft industry, potentially increasing operational costs and hindering economic activity. They may also contend that a single state's specific emissions standards create a patchwork of regulations that complicate interstate commerce and that federal standards should be uniform.
Opponents contend
Opponents of this resolution would argue that the EPA's rule is crucial for allowing California to address significant air quality issues, particularly in port communities, by implementing stricter emissions controls on commercial harbor craft. They would assert that these standards are necessary to protect public health and the environment from harmful pollutants and that states should have the authority to set more stringent environmental regulations when warranted.
The bill text is extremely short and can be read in under a minute, making it highly accessible for immediate understanding of its direct action.
Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That Congress disapproves the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency...
Disapproval of EPA Rule on California Nonroad Engine Pollution Standards
This provision explicitly states that Congress disapproves of the Environmental Protection Agency's rule concerning "California State Nonroad Engine Pollution Control Standards; Commercial Harbor Craft Regulations; Notice of Decision," which was published in the Federal Register on January 10, 2025. By disapproving this rule, the resolution seeks to nullify it, meaning the EPA's decision to allow California to implement these specific pollution control standards for commercial harbor craft would be overturned, and the rule would have no legal effect.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that nullifying the EPA rule prevents an overreach of state-specific regulations that could burden the commercial harbor craft industry with inconsistent and costly compliance requirements. They contend that federal oversight should prioritize national economic interests and regulatory uniformity, preventing states from imposing standards that could disadvantage local businesses or create competitive imbalances.
Critics contend
Opponents contend that disapproving this rule undermines California's efforts to address critical air quality and public health concerns in its heavily trafficked port areas. They argue that states should retain the authority to implement more stringent environmental protections when necessary to safeguard their citizens and local ecosystems, especially given the unique pollution challenges faced by coastal regions.
Tradeoffs
The provision navigates the tension between state autonomy in environmental regulation and the desire for national regulatory uniformity, as well as the balance between economic considerations for industry and public health/environmental protection.