Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today supported critical legislation to return accountability and transparency to the federal regulatory process. Simpson, an original cosponsor of the legislation, voted in favor of the Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act of 2013, H.R. 367, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives today by a vote of 232 to 183.

“The Obama Administration is using the regulatory process to force its agenda on the American people and it is weakening our economy and pushing the federal government further into our lives,” said Simpson. “The REINS Act is a crucial step in creating job growth and restoring economic confidence in America.”

The REINS Act amends the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to require Congress to approve every new major regulation proposed by the executive branch. Federal agencies may no longer unilaterally adopt a new regulation that would cost over $50 million per year without congressional consent. By returning to Congress its constitutional charge, the REINS Act further holds Congress accountable to the American people for laws imposed upon them.

“I believe Congress has a strong oversight role to play to ensure that federal agencies are not overreaching their authority and stifling job growth,” said Simpson. “I have heard from countless Idahoans who are frustrated with the impact of costly regulations on their ability to do business.” 

H.R. 367 now moves to the U.S. Senate for consideration.