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 proposes congressional disapproval of a Department of Energy (DOE) rule concerning energy conservation standards for commercial refrigerators, freezers, and refrigerator-freezers. The rule in question was submitted by the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. The resolution seeks to nullify the rule, preventing it from taking effect.
If passed, this resolution would effectively reverse the energy conservation standards set by the DOE for these appliances. This action is taken under Chapter 8 of Title 5 of the United States Code, which allows Congress to review and disapprove agency rules.
The resolution was introduced in the House of Representatives by Mr. Goldman of Texas and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of H.J.Res.75, if enacted, would be to prevent the implementation of the DOE's energy conservation standards for commercial refrigeration appliances. Manufacturers would not be required to meet the new standards outlined in the disapproved rule.
This could lead to lower initial costs for these appliances, but potentially higher energy consumption over their lifespan. It could also impact the overall energy efficiency goals set by the Department of Energy.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially lower initial costs for commercial refrigerators, freezers, and refrigerator-freezers.
- Reduced regulatory burden on manufacturers, potentially fostering innovation in other areas.
- Could allow for more diverse product offerings, not constrained by strict energy efficiency standards.
- May prevent potential disruptions to the supply chain or increased prices due to compliance costs.
- Gives Congress oversight on agency regulations.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potentially higher energy consumption by commercial refrigeration appliances.
- Slower progress towards national energy efficiency goals.
- Possible negative environmental impacts due to increased energy use.
- May lead to higher long-term operating costs for businesses due to increased energy bills.
- Could undermine the authority and expertise of the Department of Energy in setting energy efficiency standards.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
This resolution aligns with the principle of Congressional oversight of executive agencies, as established in Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. The Congressional Review Act (under which this resolution is filed, codified in Title 5) is a mechanism created by Congress to check the power of the executive branch and ensure that agencies are not overstepping their authority.
Furthermore, the resolution reflects Congress's power to regulate commerce, as outlined in Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 (the Commerce Clause). By disapproving a rule related to energy conservation standards, Congress is influencing the regulation of products in the marketplace.
However, some might argue that excessive congressional interference in agency rulemaking could undermine the expertise and efficiency of the executive branch, potentially leading to inconsistent or politically motivated policies.
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).