Sen. Joni Ernst Cosponsors Legislation To Rein-In Federal Regulations

REINS Act Would Hold Elected Officials Accountable To Approve New Major Rules & Regulations Rather Than Bureaucrats

U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) announced she has cosponsored legislation to rein-in federal regulations. The Regulations From the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act of 2015 (S.226), commonly referred to as the REINS Act, requires Congress to approve major rules issued by federal agencies. The Iowa Senator is among 32 cosponsors to the legislation reintroduced by Senator Rand Paul (R-KY).

“Iowans know the burden of red tape and overregulation,” said Senator Ernst. “The REINS Act restores transparency and accountability in Washington by requiring congressional approval for burdensome new rules and limiting the reach of federal government agencies. It’s common sense to hold elected officials accountable to review and approve new major rules and regulations that will have a significant impact on Iowans – and folks across the country – rather than allow nameless bureaucrats unfettered control. We must continue working to find solutions that enable our economy to thrive rather than being stymied under burdensome federal rules and regulations.”

About The REINS Act:

• Designates a ‘major rule’ as any rule or regulation that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) determines to have a yearly economic impact of $100 million or more.

• Requires passage by a roll call vote in Congress and presidential signature before any new ‘major rule’ can be enacted.

• Gives Congress the ability to block burdensome new rules and regulations imposed by federal agencies.

• Restrains the power and broad discretion of federal agencies to impose significant ‘major rules’ without congressional oversight or public discussion.

• Paves the way for transparency and accountability within the federal rulemaking process.

# # #