Congressman Russell Introduces Bill to Counteract Executive Branch Overreach

Press Release

Congressman Steve Russell (OK-5) today introduced H.R. 2631 "The Regulatory Predictability for Business Growth Act," which is a companion bill to legislation authored by Senator Steve Daines (R-MT). This bill is in response to a Supreme Court decision, Perez vs. Mortgage Bankers Association, from earlier this year that allowed the executive branch to change their interpretation of laws and regulations without going through the Notice and Comment (N&C) process. Without the N&C process, businesses and individuals alike could be subject to sudden, unexpected regulatory changes that could cost millions and stifle growth and innovation.

Congressman Steve Russell further commented on H.R. 2631:

"As important as it is for federal agencies to issue up-to-date guidance on how they intend to administer the law, it is equally important that businesses and other stakeholders have adequate notice and opportunity for feedback when agencies intend to change their practices. By being able to change their interpretation of laws and regulations without notice or comment, agencies could cause huge, unexpected burdens for the businesses forced to comply. Regardless of whether the administration is Republican or Democrat, federal agencies should not be able to surprise businesses with unexpected new regulatory burdens. This bill goes beyond just oversight of federal power, and also serves as assistance for businesses all around the country to make sure regulations and their interpretations won't be changed without warning. This brings more certainty to the private sector, which in turn leads to job creation and economic growth."

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