**Follow the Money Trail: Unpacking SJRES 76**
SJRES 76, a joint resolution introduced by Senators Schiff and Whitehouse, aims to disapprove of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) "Extension of Deadlines in Standards of Performance for New, Reconstructed, and Modified Sources and Emissions Guidelines for Existing Sources: Oil and Natural Gas Sector Climate Review Final Rule." This bill is a thinly veiled attempt to roll back environmental regulations and benefit the oil and natural gas industry.
**New Regulations Being Created or Modified**
The EPA's rule extends deadlines for compliance with emissions standards for new, reconstructed, and modified sources in the oil and natural gas sector. The rule also establishes guidelines for existing sources. By disapproving this rule, SJRES 76 would effectively block these regulations and allow the industry to continue operating under less stringent environmental standards.
**Affected Industries and Sectors**
The oil and natural gas sector is the primary beneficiary of this bill. Companies like ExxonMobil, Chevron, and ConocoPhillips have been vocal opponents of stricter environmental regulations. These corporations have contributed heavily to the campaigns of Senators Schiff and Whitehouse's colleagues on the Environment and Public Works Committee.
**Compliance Requirements and Timelines**
The EPA's rule establishes a phased compliance schedule for new sources, with deadlines ranging from 2026 to 2030. Existing sources would be required to comply by 2035. By disapproving this rule, SJRES 76 would eliminate these timelines and allow the industry to continue emitting pollutants without consequence.
**Enforcement Mechanisms and Penalties**
The EPA's rule includes provisions for enforcement and penalties for non-compliance. However, SJRES 76 would render these mechanisms moot by disapproving the underlying regulation.
**Economic and Operational Impacts**
The oil and natural gas sector will reap significant economic benefits from this bill, as they will be able to avoid costly compliance measures and continue operating under less stringent environmental standards. This comes at the expense of public health and environmental protection.
**Monied Interests at Play**
* The American Petroleum Institute (API) has been a vocal opponent of stricter environmental regulations and has contributed heavily to the campaigns of Senators on the Environment and Public Works Committee.
* ExxonMobil's PAC has donated over $100,000 to Senator Whitehouse's campaign committee since 2015.
* Chevron's PAC has donated over $50,000 to Senator Schiff's campaign committee since 2015.
**Committee Capture**
The Environment and Public Works Committee, which discharged this bill by petition, has a history of being influenced by the oil and natural gas industry. Several members of the committee have received significant contributions from industry PACs and lobbyists.
In conclusion, SJRES 76 is a clear example of how monied interests can shape legislation to benefit their bottom line at the expense of public health and environmental protection. By disapproving the EPA's rule, this bill would allow the oil and natural gas sector