Bill would void agency rules not spelled out in law by Congress
In committeeS. 60Latest action
Sponsor: Rand Paul · Senator · KY
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Official title: Write the Laws Act
119th Congress
Topics: Government & democracy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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Federal rules not fully spelled out in a law passed by Congress would have no legal force starting 90 days after enactment.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
S. 60, the Write the Laws Act, would strip legal force from any federal rule, regulation, or presidential directive not fully detailed in a statute Congress passed, effective 90 days after enactment. It requires the to report on existing laws that improperly delegate lawmaking power to agencies, and lets people sue the government over noncompliant rules, with courts reviewing cases without deferring to agencies.
Who does it affect?
Affects nearly all federal agencies that issue regulations, including the EPA, FDA, and Labor Department, and any businesses or individuals subject to environmental, workplace safety, financial, or health rules.
Why does it matter?
Supporters say it restores lawmaking power to elected Congress instead of unelected agency officials; critics say it could slow government response to new problems by requiring Congress to legislate details agencies currently handle through rulemaking.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJan 9, 2025
- Senate committeeYou are here · Jan 9, 2025
- Senate vote
- House
- The president's desk
Right now: a Senate committee is reviewing it. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.