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H.R. 1179 · 115th Congress · 2017–2018

Discouraging Frivolous Lawsuits Act

H.R. 1179 in the 115th Congress (2017–2018) was introduced on Feb 16, 2017, sponsored by Tom Rice with 65 co-sponsors.

During the 115th Congress (2017–2018), Donald Trump was president, and Republicans held majorities in both the House and Senate.

Status
Introduced
Introduced
Feb 16, 2017
Co-sponsors
65
Policy area
Environmental Protection

What it does

Discouraging Frivolous Lawsuits Act This bill amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (commonly known as the Clean Water Act) to revise requirements concerning citizen suits. Litigation costs (including reasonable attorney and expert witness fees) must be awarded to the prevailing party, thus the bill removes a court's discretion to award the fees.

Summary by the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service.

Sponsor

Tom Rice (R-SC). Co-sponsors: 65 Republicans.

Where it stands

  • IntroducedFeb 16, 2017
  • Passed the House—
  • Passed the Senate—
  • Sent to the President—
  • Became law—

Latest action: Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment. (Feb 17, 2017)

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From GovInfo bill records, Congressional Research Service summaries, Voteview roll calls and lobbying reports.

Cite or embed this page

Capitol Receipts, “H.R. 1179 (115th Congress): Discouraging Frivolous Lawsuits Act,” https://www.capitolreceipts.com/bill/115-hr-1179/discouraging-frivolous-lawsuits-act (accessed 2026-10-17).

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