Saving Homeowners from Overregulation With Exceptional Rinsing Act; SHOWER Act
Summary
The SHOWER Act, or Saving Homeowners from Overregulation With Exceptional Rinsing Act, aims to amend the Energy Policy and Conservation Act by revising the definition of 'showerhead'. The bill seeks to adopt the definition provided in ASME A112.18.1-2024, excluding safety shower showerheads. It also mandates the Secretary of Energy to revise regulations to conform to this new definition within 180 days of the Act's enactment.
The primary goal is to provide homeowners relief from perceived overregulation related to water flow from showerheads. This is achieved by aligning the regulatory definition with an industry standard.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives, referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and later committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union.
Expected Effects
The SHOWER Act's passage would lead to a change in the regulatory definition of showerheads, potentially allowing for showerheads with higher water flow rates than currently permitted under existing federal regulations. This could result in increased water consumption in households.
Manufacturers would need to ensure their products comply with the ASME A112.18.1-2024 standard to be legally sold as showerheads. The Department of Energy would be required to update its regulations accordingly.
Consumers might experience changes in the types of showerheads available for purchase and their water usage.
Potential Benefits
- Potential for increased water flow in showers, which some consumers may find more desirable.
- Alignment with industry standards, potentially reducing compliance burdens for manufacturers.
- Could lead to innovation in showerhead design that focuses on user experience alongside water efficiency.
- May reduce the cost of some showerheads if regulatory burdens are lessened.
- Could be seen as a step towards reducing government overreach in consumer product regulation.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased water consumption, which could strain water resources in some areas.
- May lead to higher water bills for consumers who use showerheads with higher flow rates.
- Could undermine water conservation efforts and conflict with environmental goals.
- The revised definition might not adequately address water efficiency concerns.
- Could set a precedent for weakening energy and water conservation standards for other appliances.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The SHOWER Act appears to align with the enumerated powers granted to Congress under Article I, Section 8 of the US Constitution, specifically the power to regulate commerce. The Act amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act, which falls under the regulation of interstate commerce.
There are no apparent violations of individual rights or freedoms protected by the Bill of Rights. The Act does not infringe upon freedom of speech, religion, or any other constitutionally protected right.
The Act's focus on energy and water conservation standards relates to promoting the general welfare, as mentioned in the Preamble of the Constitution.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).