S.J.Res. 31 · 119th Congress · Senate
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 "Review of Final Rul
Introduced 2025-03-06 · Sponsored by Sen. Curtis, John R. [R-UT] (R-UT) · Last updated 2026-03-31
Last action (2025-06-20): Became Public Law No: 119-20.
Summary
Lets industrial facilities that cut their pollution enough to reclassify from "major" to "area" sources actually get the regulatory relief that comes with that lower classification. An EPA rule had locked them into the stricter major-source standards permanently, even after they reduced emissions. Congress overturned that rule, restoring the incentive to clean up.
The Good
Allows facilities to reduce regulatory burden by reclassifying
The overturned rule required facilities that had been classified as major sources of hazardous air pollutants to continue meeting major source standards even after reducing emissions enough to qualify as area sources. Reversing this rewards facilities that successfully cut emissions.
Provides incentive for pollution reduction
If facilities can move to less stringent area source standards by reducing emissions, it creates a financial incentive to invest in cleaner processes. The EPA rule removed this incentive by locking facilities into major source requirements permanently.
The Bad
Creates a loophole for persistent and bioaccumulative toxins
The EPA specifically designed the rule for facilities emitting persistent, bioaccumulative hazardous air pollutants like mercury, lead, and dioxins. These substances accumulate in the environment and food chain. Allowing reclassification means less monitoring and fewer controls on some of the most dangerous pollutants.
Reclassification may not reflect actual environmental improvement
Facilities can qualify as area sources by implementing pollution controls that reduce emissions on paper while still operating the same processes. The underlying hazard potential remains; only the measured output changes. The EPA rule was designed to prevent this regulatory gaming.
Vote Record
House, 2025-05-22
Passed Congress.gov — House Roll Call #143
House vote by state
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Senate, 2025-05-01
Passed Congress.gov — Senate Roll Call #229
Senate vote by state
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Senate, 2025-04-30
Passed Congress.gov — Senate Roll Call #227
Senate vote by state
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