H.J.Res.75 - Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of Energy relating to Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for Commercial Refrigerators, Freezers, and Refrigerator-Freezers. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.J.Res.75 is a joint resolution passed by the US Congress to disapprove a rule issued by the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (within the Department of Energy). The rule concerns energy conservation standards for commercial refrigerators, freezers, and refrigerator-freezers. The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify the rule.
By disapproving the rule, Congress prevents it from taking effect.
The resolution cites the specific Federal Register publication (90 Fed. Reg. 7464; published January 21, 2025) containing the disapproved rule.
Expected Effects
The disapproval means that the energy conservation standards for commercial refrigerators, freezers, and refrigerator-freezers, as defined in the specified rule, will not be enforced. This could lead to manufacturers producing less energy-efficient appliances. It may also affect energy consumption and costs for businesses using these appliances.
This could also lead to increased energy consumption by commercial users.
Ultimately, the impact depends on whether manufacturers continue to adhere to similar energy conservation standards voluntarily or if future regulations are implemented.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially lower initial costs for commercial refrigeration equipment if manufacturers opt for less energy-efficient components.
- Reduced regulatory burden on businesses manufacturing these appliances, potentially fostering innovation in other areas.
- Congress asserting its oversight role in regulatory matters, ensuring agency rules align with congressional intent.
- Could allow for more flexibility in design and manufacturing, potentially leading to more diverse product offerings.
- May prevent unintended consequences or compliance costs associated with the disapproved rule.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased energy consumption by commercial refrigeration equipment, leading to higher operating costs for businesses in the long run.
- Negative environmental impact due to reduced energy efficiency, contributing to increased greenhouse gas emissions.
- Undermining efforts to promote energy conservation and sustainability in the commercial sector.
- Possible conflict with broader national energy policy goals and international commitments to reduce energy consumption.
- Could create uncertainty for manufacturers who may have already begun adapting to the previously established energy conservation standards.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution is an exercise of Congress's legislative powers under Article I, Section 1 of the US Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. The Congressional Review Act (CRA), under which this resolution is enacted, is a mechanism for Congress to check the power of the executive branch in implementing regulations.
This action aligns with the principle of separation of powers and the system of checks and balances.
There is no apparent conflict with any specific constitutional provision.
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).