Bill > S15

This bill, known as the Regulations From the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act of 2013 (REINS Act), aims to increase accountability and transparency in the federal regulatory process by requiring Congress to approve "major rules" issued by executive branch agencies before they can take effect. A major rule is defined as one that is likely to have an annual economic effect of $100 million or more, cause a significant increase in costs or prices, or have substantial adverse effects on competition, employment, or other economic factors. Under this bill, federal agencies must submit a report on any proposed rule to Congress, classifying it as either major or nonmajor. If a rule is classified as major, it will only become effective if Congress passes a joint resolution of approval for it within 70 legislative days. If Congress fails to approve a major rule within this timeframe, it will be considered disapproved and will not take effect, though there are limited exceptions for rules deemed necessary due to imminent threats to health or safety, criminal law enforcement, national security, or international trade agreements. Nonmajor rules would still follow existing procedures for congressional review. The bill also outlines specific procedures for how Congress would consider these joint resolutions of approval, including limitations on amendments and debate.