Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act of 2015

Floor Speech

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Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chair, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 427, the so-called ``Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act of 2015.''

The REINS Act is yet another attempt by House Republicans to limit the ability of federal agencies to enforce commonsense rules and regulations. This legislation would require Congressional approval before an agency can issue any major new rule. Congress relies on agencies to promulgate rules, because they have expertise in a given area. However, this bill would require that congressional politics play a part in deciding complicated rules and regulations. As a result, this legislation is designed to protect special interests while undermining the ability of federal agencies from doing their jobs and working to ensure there are safeguards in place to protect the public's health and safety.

Moreover, Congress already has considerable power to review and reject the rules issued by executive agencies. For the past two decades, Congress has had the authority to pass a joint resolution disapproving any rule within 60 days of receiving the rule. If the President signs the resolution of disapproval, the regulation is not implemented. In addition, President Obama has implemented significant reforms to the rulemaking process. In January 2010, he signed an Executive Order requiring agencies to determine if the benefits of proposed rules are justified considering their cost to society.

At a time when Congress should be doing everything it can to create jobs and improve the economy, this bill is nothing but a distraction. I urge my colleagues to oppose this legislation.

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