A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management relating to "Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness: Gulf of America".
- Sponsor
- Sen. Whitehouse, Sheldon [D-RI]
- Committees
- Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Oct 1, 2025
Bottom line
Congress is attempting to overturn an administrative rule by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management concerning the naming of geographic features in the Gulf of America.
What it actually does
This joint resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to disapprove a specific rule issued by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM). The rule, titled "Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness: Gulf of America" (90 Fed. Reg. 24066 (June 6, 2025)), would be rendered without force or effect if this resolution is enacted, effectively nullifying the agency's action.
Proponents argue
Proponents of this resolution argue that it is a necessary exercise of congressional oversight to prevent executive agencies from implementing rules that are deemed inappropriate, overreaching, or contrary to legislative intent. They may contend that the BOEM rule in question, "Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness: Gulf of America", represents an arbitrary or politically motivated change that does not serve the public interest or adhere to established naming conventions, thus requiring legislative intervention to nullify it.
Opponents contend
Opponents of this resolution would likely argue that it undermines the legitimate rulemaking authority of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, an agency tasked with managing offshore energy resources. They might assert that the BOEM rule was developed through proper administrative procedures and reflects a valid policy decision, and that congressional disapproval constitutes an unwarranted interference with executive branch functions and potentially disrespects the intent behind "Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness".
The bill text is exceptionally 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 Bureau of Ocean Energy Management relating to "Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness: Gulf of America" (90 Fed. Reg. 24066 (June 6, 2025)), and such rule shall have no force or effect.
Disapproval of BOEM Rule on Geographic Naming
This provision explicitly states that Congress disapproves of a specific rule issued by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) on June 6, 2025, concerning the naming of geographic features, specifically "Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness: Gulf of America". By disapproving this rule, the resolution dictates that the BOEM rule will have no legal standing or effect, effectively preventing its implementation.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this disapproval is a critical check on executive branch power, ensuring that agency actions align with congressional intent or public sentiment. They may believe the BOEM rule was an overreach or an inappropriate use of administrative authority, particularly regarding culturally or historically sensitive geographic names. This action reasserts Congress's role in significant policy decisions.
Critics contend
Critics contend that this resolution interferes with the legitimate administrative functions of BOEM, potentially politicizing decisions that should be based on expert agency review. They might argue that the original BOEM rule was a well-considered effort to update or correct geographic names, and its disapproval undermines the agency's ability to carry out its mandate effectively and efficiently.
Tradeoffs
The primary tension lies between congressional oversight and executive agency autonomy. While Congress has the power to disapprove rules, frequent use of the CRA can create uncertainty for agencies and potentially stifle their ability to respond to evolving policy needs. It also highlights the political nature of seemingly administrative decisions like geographic naming.