Bill > HR5034

This bill, titled the "Stop the EPA Act of 2014," proposes significant changes to how the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) creates and implements rules. It would establish a new process for congressional review of EPA regulations, requiring the EPA Administrator to submit detailed reports to Congress before any rule can take effect. These reports must include the rule itself, its economic impact, and any related actions by the EPA or other federal agencies. For "major rules," defined as those with substantial economic effects (over $50 million annually, significant cost increases, or adverse effects on competition and employment), Congress would need to pass a joint resolution of approval. If Congress does not approve a major rule within a specified timeframe, it would not take effect. The bill also outlines procedures for reviewing "nonmajor rules" and includes provisions for emergency situations where a major rule might take effect temporarily. Additionally, it mandates a study by the Comptroller General to assess the economic costs of existing EPA rules and requires that any major EPA rules already in effect upon enactment of this bill would cease to be effective after 180 days unless they undergo the new review process.