Nashville Standard

Rep. Mark Green has introduced the Sunset Chevron Act in the 119th Congress, aiming to curtail the power of executive agencies by overturning rules upheld by Chevron Deference unless approved by Congress. In 2024, federal agencies finalized $1.4 trillion in net regulatory costs, marking it as the most expensive year since 2005, according to the American Action Forum.

Rep. Green stated, "Chevron deference was always outside the realm of Constitutional authority. Congressional intent should be the most important tool of interpretation when there is ambiguity in the law." He emphasized that reversing Chevron doctrine would prevent unelected bureaucrats from manipulating laws for political purposes and restore checks and balances.

Nick Johns from the National Taxpayers Union supported the bill, saying it would remove economic barriers created by excessive regulations and restore Congressional authority. Marc Wheat from Advancing American Freedom also endorsed the legislation, noting that it would unwind rules established under Chevron deference.

The bill is cosponsored by several representatives including Andy Biggs, Ryan Zinke, Clay Higgins, Mike Collins, Burgess Owens, David Rouzer, Michael Cloud, and Josh Brecheen. It has received endorsements from organizations such as the National Taxpayers Union and Advancing American Freedom.

The legislation mandates that the Government Accountability Office compile a list of agency actions upheld by Chevron deference. These actions will begin sunsetting every 30 days unless reaffirmed by Congress. The bill also extends time for lawmakers to challenge long-standing rules through an exception to filing restrictions under the Congressional Review Act.