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Science-Based Emissions Standards Act of 2021

12/30/2022, 8:18 AM

Summary of Bill HR 5991

Bill 117 hr 5991, also known as the Science-Based Emissions Standards Act of 2021, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to establish science-based emissions standards for greenhouse gases in order to combat climate change.

The bill requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to conduct a thorough scientific assessment of greenhouse gas emissions and their impact on the environment. Based on this assessment, the EPA will then set emissions standards that are in line with the latest scientific research on climate change.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the EPA regularly review and update these emissions standards to ensure that they remain effective in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change. Supporters of the bill argue that establishing science-based emissions standards is crucial in addressing the urgent threat of climate change and protecting the environment for future generations. They believe that by relying on scientific research and data, the US can take meaningful steps towards reducing its carbon footprint and transitioning to a more sustainable energy future. Opponents of the bill may argue that implementing strict emissions standards could have negative economic impacts on certain industries, leading to job losses and higher costs for consumers. However, proponents of the bill maintain that the long-term benefits of reducing greenhouse gas emissions far outweigh any short-term economic challenges. Overall, the Science-Based Emissions Standards Act of 2021 aims to prioritize scientific research and data in the fight against climate change, setting a precedent for evidence-based policymaking in environmental regulation.

Congressional Summary of HR 5991

Science-Based Emissions Standards Act of 2021

This bill prohibits the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from finalizing any rule to amend the new source performance standards for stationary sources under the Clean Air Act to reduce methane emissions from new and modified oil and natural gas facilities until the Department of Energy takes specified actions. Specifically, the Department of Energy must first (1) complete and publish the results of the study titled Quantification of Methane Emissions from Marginal (Small Producing) Oil and Gas Wells, and (2) provide a period of at least 90 days for public comment on the application of the study's results.

The EPA must take the results of the study into consideration when finalizing the rule.

Current Status of Bill HR 5991

Bill HR 5991 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since November 17, 2021. Bill HR 5991 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on November 17, 2021.  Bill HR 5991's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change. as of November 18, 2021

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 5991

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
20
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
20
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 5991

Primary Policy Focus

Environmental Protection

Potential Impact Areas

- Administrative law and regulatory procedures
- Air quality
- Climate change and greenhouse gases
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Environmental assessment, monitoring, research
- Environmental regulatory procedures
- Government studies and investigations
- Oil and gas

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 5991

Science-Based Emissions Standards Act of 2021
Science-Based Emissions Standards Act of 2021
To direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to ensure the completion of a marginal well study by the Secretary of Energy so as to inform the development of certain rules under the Clean Air Act, and for other purposes.

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