South Dakota Air Quality and Haze Rules
Key Points
- This resolution would cancel a specific rule from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding air pollution in South Dakota. The EPA rule was designed to manage 'regional haze,' which is the smog or pollution that makes it harder to see clearly in national parks and wilderness areas.
- If this resolution passes and becomes law, the EPA's plan for South Dakota would have no power. This means the state would not have to follow the specific requirements the EPA recently set for managing emissions from power plants and factories.
- The original EPA rule was part of a long-term national effort to clear the air in protected natural spaces. By blocking it, Congress is stopping a specific set of environmental requirements that were published in August 2025.
- This action uses a special power that allows Congress to review and overturn rules made by government agencies. If the rule is blocked, the EPA is also generally prevented from passing a similar rule in the future without new permission from Congress.
Milestones
Motion to proceed to consideration of measure rejected in Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 43 - 50. Record Vote Number: 4.
Motion to proceed to consideration of measure made in Senate. (CR S72)
Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 290.
Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works discharged, by petition, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 802(c).
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.
Vote Results
1 voteOn the Motion to Proceed
Source Information
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
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; South Dakota; Regional Haze Plan for the Second Implementation Period".
Sponsor
Data Sources
Analysis generated by AI. While we strive for accuracy, this should not be considered legal or professional advice. Always verify information with official government sources.