Plain Language Summary
# ERASER Act Summary **What It Would Do:** The ERASER Act would require federal agencies to repeal existing regulations before creating new ones. For most new rules, agencies would need to eliminate at least three related rules first. For major rules (those costing $100 million or more annually or significantly affecting the economy), agencies would need to repeal at least three related rules, and the new rule's costs cannot exceed the costs of the rules being eliminated.
The goal is to reduce overall federal regulation. **Who It Affects:** This bill would impact federal agencies that create regulations (like the EPA, FDA, and Department of Labor) and ultimately affect businesses and consumers who must comply with federal rules. Business groups generally favor reducing regulations, while consumer and environmental advocates often argue regulations protect public health and safety. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced by Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) in the 119th Congress and remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. It has not been scheduled for a vote as of the latest update.
CRS Official Summary
Expediting Reform And Stopping Excess Regulations Act or the ERASER ActThis bill generally requires federal agencies to repeal three rules before issuing a new rule.In the case of a new nonmajor rule, an agency must repeal at least three rules that, to the extent practicable, are related to the new rule.In the case of a new major rule, (1) an agency must repeal at least three rules that are related to the new major rule, and (2) the cost of the new major rule must be less than or equal to the cost of the repealed rules. A major rule is a rule that has resulted in or is likely to result in (1) an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more; (2) a major increase in costs or prices for consumers, individual industries, government agencies, or geographic regions; or (3) significant adverse effects on competition, employment, investment, productivity, or innovation.These requirements apply to rules issued through the notice and comment process and do not apply to interpretative rules, general statements of policy, or rules of agency organization, procedure, or practice. Further, the requirements do not apply to a rule or major rule that relates to the management, organization, or personnel of an agency or procurement by the agency.Any rule repealed under this bill must be published in the Federal Register.Finally, the Government Accountability Office must report on the number and estimated cost of rules and major rules currently in effect.
Latest Action
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.