US Federal Senate Bill SJR64

US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/22/25
• Refer: 7/22/25

Caption

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 "Air Plan Approval; West Virginia; Regional Haze State Implementation Plan for the Second Implementation Period".

Summary

SJR64 is a joint resolution under the Congressional Review Act that would overturn an Environmental Protection Agency rule approving West Virginia’s Regional Haze State Implementation Plan for the second implementation period. The resolution states that Congress disapproves the EPA’s air plan approval and that the rule would have no force or effect if the resolution is enacted. The underlying EPA rule concerns West Virginia’s compliance with federal regional haze requirements, which are intended to improve visibility in national parks and wilderness areas by reducing air pollution from sources such as power plants and industrial facilities. By disapproving the rule, the resolution would block the federal approval of West Virginia’s haze plan and could affect how the state implements its air quality obligations under the Clean Air Act and related EPA oversight.

Impact

If enacted, the resolution would nullify the EPA’s approval of West Virginia’s regional haze state implementation plan for the second implementation period, preventing that federal rule from taking effect. The practical impact would be on West Virginia’s air quality regulatory framework, especially any emission-control obligations tied to visibility protection and regional haze compliance under the Clean Air Act. It would also signal congressional rejection of EPA’s determination that the state plan met federal requirements, potentially requiring further agency action or a revised state submission.

Sentiment

No committee discussion or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of support or opposition in the available materials. Based on the bill text alone, the resolution reflects a likely deregulatory or anti-EPA posture from its sponsor, while the absence of debate or vote history leaves the broader sentiment unclear. The measure was introduced and referred to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works.

Contention

The main point of contention is likely whether EPA should have approved West Virginia’s regional haze plan and whether the state plan adequately protects visibility and air quality under federal law. Supporters of the resolution would likely argue that the EPA overreached or approved an insufficient plan, while opponents would likely defend the agency’s approval as necessary to enforce Clean Air Act standards. Because no transcripts or votes are included, the specific arguments of members are not available.