119-SJRES-122 Journalist Public Summary

Headline Summary

A resolution to nullify the EPA’s approval of Indiana’s regional haze plan, effectively blocking that rule from taking effect.

What It Does

S.J.Res. 122 uses the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to overturn a recent EPA rule that approved Indiana’s plan for controlling regional haze—air pollution that reduces visibility in national parks and wilderness areas. If enacted, the EPA approval would have no legal effect, and the agency would be constrained from issuing a substantially similar approval unless Congress authorizes it.

In plain terms: it’s a congressional “veto” of an EPA green light. Supporters believe Indiana’s plan lets too much haze‑forming pollution continue; opponents say the EPA already reviewed and approved it, so Congress shouldn’t undo that call.

Who’s For It

• Sponsor: Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D‑RI).
• Likely Democratic allies who argue Indiana’s plan is too weak to cut haze‑forming emissions and to protect park visibility and public health.
• Environmental and public‑health groups that prefer stronger controls on power plants and industrial sources.

Who’s Against It

• Republican lawmakers who generally oppose using the CRA to expand federal oversight and who favor deference to state plans once EPA has approved them.
• Indiana state officials and regulated industries (utilities, manufacturing) concerned about uncertainty, possible stricter future requirements, and compliance costs if the approval is overturned.
• Business groups that warn Congress overriding EPA decisions could slow permitting and investment.

What’s Next

Status: Introduced March 9, 2026; read twice and referred to the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee the same day. Next steps could include a committee vote and, if advanced, floor consideration under CRA fast‑track procedures, followed by House action. To take effect, it must pass both chambers and be signed by the President (or passed over a veto).