Summary

Rewrites the judicial review rule in the Administrative Procedure Act to explicitly direct courts how to evaluate agency interpretations of statutes and regulations. It restructures the current text into new subsections and adds a new part that begins, “The reviewing court shall—,” clarifying that judges, not agencies, make the final call on what the law and agency rules mean. This change affects lawsuits challenging federal agency actions across all policy areas. It does not create new programs or funding, but it could shift court outcomes by emphasizing independent judicial review of legal questions rather than deference to agency views.

Key Points

• Amends 5 U.S.C. 706 to add subsection structure and new instructions for courts reviewing agency interpretations.
• Adds a new subsection that begins, “The reviewing court shall—,” directing how courts decide legal questions.
• Targets both statutory and regulatory interpretations during judicial review of agency actions.
• Signals reduced reliance on judicial deference to agency legal interpretations, emphasizing independent review by courts.
• Applies government‑wide to all federal agencies and programs when actions are challenged under the APA.
• Does not establish new programs, spending, or taxes; it is a procedural/legal change.
• Could alter litigation strategies and outcomes in challenges to agency rules, guidance, and adjudications.
• No explicit effective date provided; default is upon enactment.