Rep. Graves Votes To Reform Regulatory Process

Today, U.S. Rep. Tom Graves (R-GA-14) voted for, and the House passed, the Regulations From the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act of 2013. The bill would require Congressional approval of major regulations that have an economic impact of over $50 million or result in major cost increases for consumers.

“Unelected Washington bureaucrats should not have the power to impose sweeping regulations that drive up costs for families and wipe out jobs,” said Rep. Graves. “Congress, a body held accountable by the public through direct elections, should be responsible for approving or denying regulatory proposals that have a major economic impact. This important reform bill provides greater oversight and opens up the debate by allowing every Congressional district to have a vote when the government seeks to impose new burdens on families and businesses across the country.”

For minor regulations, the bill continues the current process of allowing the rule to take effect unless Congress passes and the President signs a resolution of disapproval. 

Rep. Graves is a cosponsor of the REINS Act.