NE Washington News

Today, the House of Representatives passed H.J. Res. 20, a resolution aimed at overturning a rule from the Biden-Harris Administration concerning energy efficiency standards for gas-fired instantaneous water heaters. The resolution seeks to ensure consumer choice and affordability by rescinding the Department of Energy's final rule that was issued during President Biden’s last weeks in office.

Chairman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and Congressman Bob Latta (OH-05), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Energy, expressed their concerns over the potential impact of the rule. They stated, "During President Biden’s final weeks in office, the DOE issued a final rule setting a new energy efficiency standard that would significantly increase the cost of gas-fired instantaneous water heaters. Allowing this misguided rule to continue would raise prices and limit choices for American families."

Speaker Johnson supported the House Republicans' decision to end what he described as a "radical ban" on these water heaters. He said, "We refuse to allow this unnecessary, ridiculous last-minute rule to continue to raise prices, eliminate jobs, and restrict affordable, reliable choices for American households." Johnson emphasized that their actions align with public demand for lower costs and more options.

Congressman Gary Palmer (AL-06), who led H.J. Res 20, highlighted its significance in reversing previous policies: “I applaud my House colleagues in passing my Congressional Review Act to reverse the previous administration’s egregious attempt to ban gas-fired water heaters.” Palmer noted this move as crucial for prioritizing consumer choice and maintaining affordable prices.

The background provided indicates that 40% of customers affected by this rule would face increased costs. In contrast, those benefiting from cost savings would only see minor annual savings of $5.60 per appliance on a life-cycle basis.