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; Indiana; Regional Haze Plan for the Second Implementation Period".

Plain-English Summary

This joint resolution is Congress's way of formally objecting to and canceling a specific rule created by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The rule in question is about Indiana's plan to reduce haze and improve visibility in national parks and wilderness areas during what regulators call the "second implementation period" — a phase of ongoing efforts to clear up air pollution that causes the hazy, cloudy appearance often seen over scenic natural areas. The EPA had reviewed and approved Indiana's plan for how the state would meet these air quality goals.

Under a law called the Congressional Review Act, Congress has the authority to vote to overturn rules issued by federal agencies. This resolution uses that process to reject the EPA's approval of Indiana's regional haze plan. If this resolution were to pass both chambers of Congress and be signed into law (or if a presidential veto were overridden), the EPA's approval of Indiana's plan would be nullified, meaning Indiana would need to go back and rework its approach.

The people most directly affected would be Indiana residents, particularly those living near industrial facilities like power plants that emit air pollutants contributing to haze. Businesses and industries in Indiana that might face emissions requirements under the state's plan could also be affected. More broadly, visitors to national parks and wilderness areas in and around the region who enjoy clear scenic views could be impacted depending on how the outcome affects air quality efforts.

The resolution has been introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works, which is the standard first step in the legislative review process.