A 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 Commercial Refrigerators, Freezers, and Refrigerator-Freezers".
- Sponsor
- Sen. Moody, Ashley [R-FL]
- Committees
- Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Mar 27, 2025
Bottom line
This resolution uses the Congressional Review Act to block a new Department of Energy rule establishing updated energy conservation standards for commercial refrigeration units.
What it actually does
This joint resolution seeks to nullify a rule issued by the Department of Energy (DOE) concerning energy conservation standards for commercial refrigerators, freezers, and refrigerator-freezers. Utilizing the Congressional Review Act (CRA), it aims to prevent the DOE's rule, published in the Federal Register on January 21, 2025, from taking effect, thereby maintaining existing energy efficiency standards for these appliances.
Proponents argue
Supporters of the resolution argue that the DOE's new energy conservation standards impose undue burdens on businesses, particularly small businesses, by requiring costly upgrades to commercial refrigeration equipment. They contend that these regulations could lead to higher operating costs, reduced product availability, and stifle innovation without providing significant energy savings that justify the economic impact.
Opponents contend
Opponents of the resolution (and proponents of the DOE rule) assert that updated energy conservation standards are crucial for reducing energy consumption, lowering utility bills for businesses over the long term, and mitigating environmental impacts. They argue that the standards encourage manufacturers to develop more efficient technologies, leading to overall economic and environmental benefits.
The bill text is extremely short and can be read in under a minute, allowing ample time for consideration.
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 Commercial Refrigerators, Freezers, and Refrigerator-Freezers" (90 Fed. Reg. 7464 (January 21, 2025)), and such rule shall have no force or effect.
Disapproval of DOE Energy Conservation Standards Rule
This provision explicitly states that Congress disapproves of the Department of Energy's rule regarding energy conservation standards for commercial refrigerators, freezers, and refrigerator-freezers, which was published in the Federal Register on January 21, 2025. By disapproving the rule, the resolution dictates that the DOE's new standards will not take effect and will have no legal standing, effectively rolling back or preventing the implementation of stricter energy efficiency requirements for these appliances.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that nullifying the rule prevents unnecessary compliance costs for manufacturers and businesses, particularly small businesses, which might struggle to absorb the expenses of new, more efficient equipment. They contend that the existing standards are sufficient or that the new standards are not cost-effective, leading to higher prices for consumers or reduced business viability.
Critics contend
Opponents argue that blocking the DOE rule undermines efforts to promote energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and lower operational costs for businesses in the long run. They contend that the new standards are based on sound technical analysis and provide a net benefit to the economy and environment by driving innovation and reducing energy waste.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the immediate economic burden on businesses and manufacturers from complying with new energy standards against the long-term benefits of energy savings, reduced environmental impact, and technological advancement that more stringent standards aim to achieve.