This week, I'll be providing examples of past regulations that would have fallen under H.R. 10, the Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act (REINS), a bill expected to move quickly through the House this year. The REINS Act would require Congressional approval for all major rules – a terrible move that could delay or kill new environmental, health, and safety protections.

What a difference a week makes. Last Tuesday, Jan. 18, President Obama took to the pages of The Wall Street Journal to complain about federal regulation, adopting the conservative mantra that regulation is largely a nuisance and can impair job growth. Last night, in his Jan. 25 State of the Union address, Obama took a decidedly different tone. He began by implying that regulations are nothing but a hindrance to businesses. But just as quickly as my blood began to boil, it came down to a simmer. Obama followed by recommitting himself to the importance of public protections, citing consumer, labor, and environmental regulations as critical governmental contributions to society.

Massey Energy’s failure to comply with government safety standards contributed to an April 2010 explosion at the Upper Big Branch mine in West Virginia, according to preliminary reports from the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). The explosion killed 29 miners.