US Federal Senate Bill SJR139

US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/19/26
• Refer: 3/19/26

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 Disapproval; Colorado; Regional Haze Plan for the Second Implementation Period".

Impact

If passed, SJR139 would block the EPA's rule, which is designed to manage and improve air quality, specifically through regional haze plans that affect local and national parks. The ramifications of this resolution could lead to less oversight of air quality measures in Colorado, potentially hindering the state's ability to maintain compliance with federal air quality standards. This shift could impact strategies for improving visibility and air quality, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas.

Summary

SJR139 is a joint resolution aimed at disapproving a rule put forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding the Regional Haze Plan for Colorado. This resolution seeks to invoke congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5 of the United States Code. The specific rule in question pertains to the EPA's decision to disapprove certain aspects of Colorado's air quality management plan concerning regional haze, which is intended to address visibility impairment in national parks and wilderness areas across the state.

Contention

The considerations surrounding SJR139 highlight a broader conflict between state autonomy in environmental management and federal regulatory authority. Supporters of the resolution may argue that it allows states more flexibility in managing local environmental concerns, while critics raise alarms that it undermines essential federal standards intended to protect air quality and public health. The debates may also reflect larger partisan divides over environmental regulation and the role of government in climate action.