A joint resolution terminating the national emergency declared with respect to energy.
- Sponsor
- Sen. Kaine, Tim [D-VA]
- Committees
- Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Oct 8, 2025
Bottom line
S.J. Res. 71 seeks to revoke the President's declaration of a national emergency related to energy, thereby ending any special powers or authorities invoked under that declaration.
What it actually does
This joint resolution aims to immediately end the national emergency concerning energy that was declared by the President on January 20, 2025, through Executive Order 14156. It explicitly cites the National Emergencies Act as the basis for this termination, thereby revoking any special powers or authorities invoked under that declaration.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that the national emergency declared with respect to energy is no longer necessary, or perhaps was never justified, and that its continuation may grant the executive branch undue powers or distort energy markets. They may assert that the emergency declaration undermines democratic processes by allowing the President to act unilaterally on energy policy without congressional approval.
Opponents contend
Opponents would likely argue that the national emergency regarding energy remains critical for national security, economic stability, or environmental protection, depending on the original rationale for the declaration. They might contend that terminating it prematurely would jeopardize ongoing efforts to address energy-related challenges or leave the nation vulnerable to future crises.
The bill text is extremely short and straightforward, allowing for immediate comprehension of its core purpose.
Section 1
Termination of National Energy Emergency
This provision explicitly states that the national emergency concerning energy, which was declared by the President on January 20, 2025, via Executive Order 14156, is hereby terminated. This action is taken under the authority of the National Emergencies Act, effectively revoking any special powers or authorities that the President may have exercised under that declaration.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that ending the emergency restores normal legislative and regulatory processes, preventing potential overreach by the executive branch. They may believe the emergency conditions no longer exist or were exaggerated, and that the declaration itself was an inappropriate use of emergency powers.
Critics contend
Opponents would contend that terminating the emergency removes necessary tools for the President to respond to ongoing or potential energy crises, potentially destabilizing energy markets or hindering national security efforts. They would argue that the conditions necessitating the emergency still persist.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the desire to limit executive power and restore normal governance against the executive branch's perceived need for flexibility and swift action during times of crisis. It highlights the tension between congressional oversight and presidential authority in managing national emergencies.