Bill Summary
The Joint Resolution is a formal legislative measure through which the United States Congress expresses its disapproval of a specific rule issued by the Department of Energy. This rule pertains to energy conservation standards for consumer gas-fired instantaneous water heaters, as published in the Federal Register. By passing this resolution, Congress effectively nullifies the rule, meaning it will have no legal effect. The resolution was resolved by both the Senate and the House of Representatives, indicating a collective decision to reject the Department of Energy's proposed energy standards. This action reflects Congress's authority to oversee and disapprove of regulations set forth by federal agencies.
Possible Impacts
The Joint Resolution disapproving the Department of Energy's rule on energy conservation standards for consumer gas-fired instantaneous water heaters could affect people in several ways:
1. **Increased Energy Costs**: By disapproving the energy conservation standards, consumers might continue to use less efficient water heaters, which could lead to higher energy bills. Without the implementation of stricter efficiency standards, these devices may consume more gas, resulting in increased monthly expenses for households that rely on gas-fired water heaters.
2. **Environmental Impact**: The resolution could hinder efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. If more efficient gas-fired instantaneous water heaters are not mandated, this could lead to higher emissions from residential energy use. As a result, individuals concerned about climate change and environmental sustainability may be disappointed, as the disapproval may slow progress towards cleaner energy practices.
3. **Market Competition and Innovation**: The lack of enforced energy standards may reduce the incentive for manufacturers to develop and market more efficient water heating technologies. This could limit consumer choices in the market, stifling innovation and competition that could lead to better, more energy-efficient products. Consumers may miss out on advancements that could save them money and contribute to a more sustainable future.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.J. Res. 20 Enrolled Bill (ENR)]
H.J.Res.20
One Hundred Nineteenth Congress
of the
United States of America
AT THE FIRST SESSION
Begun and held at the City of Washington on Friday,
the third day of January, two thousand and twenty-five
Joint Resolution
Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5,
United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Energy
relating to ``Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards
for Consumer Gas-fired Instantaneous Water Heaters''.
Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United
States of America in Congress assembled, That Congress disapproves the
rule submitted by the Department of Energy relating to ``Energy
Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for Consumer Gas-
fired Instantaneous Water Heaters'' (89 Fed. Reg. 105188 (December 26,
2024)), and such rule shall have no force or effect.
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate.