A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Office of the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services relating to "Policy on Adhering to the Text of the Administrative Procedure Act".

# Summary of SJRES 82 **What It Does:** This bill would allow Congress to disapprove and block a rule issued by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) regarding how the department interprets and applies the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). The APA is a federal law that governs how government agencies create regulations and make decisions. This particular HHS rule deals with the department's policy on following the text of that law. If passed, Congress would reject this HHS policy using a special legislative process designed for regulatory oversight. **Who It Affects and Key Details:** The bill would primarily affect how HHS operates internally and how it makes regulatory decisions going forward.

It could impact anyone who interacts with HHS rules or regulations, including healthcare providers, patients, and the general public. The bill is sponsored by Senator Angus King (I-Maine) and focuses on issues of congressional oversight and administrative law procedures. The specific concerns relate to HHS's interpretation of how strictly it must follow the Administrative Procedure Act's requirements. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill is in committee and has not advanced further in the legislative process. It has not yet been voted on by either chamber of Congress.