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H.R. 6409119th CongressPassed one chamberLatest action Apr 17, 2026Decoded by AI · checked against the record
The plain-language version leads. The official text is always the reference.
The FENCES Act would excuse states from federal air quality penalties caused by pollution drifting in from other countries.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
The FENCES Act amends the Clean Air Act so states get relief from federal penalties when foreign pollution—whether from human activity or natural sources like wildfires—keeps them from meeting air quality standards. Areas cannot be labeled "nonattainment" if foreign pollution is the sole cause of failure. States must also prove every five years that they are already limiting vehicle emissions as much as possible to qualify for this relief, and must keep working toward overall clean air goals.
State environmental agencies and industries in areas affected by foreign pollution, particularly in the West and Southwest, are directly affected. Residents near international borders or wildfire-prone regions are also affected.
The change would reduce federal pressure and financial penalties on states dealing with pollution sources outside their control, without altering rules for domestic, human-caused pollution.
AI-drafted summary. Verify it against the official text before you act on it. Read the official bill on Congress.gov
Right now: it passed the House, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
Latest action: — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.