S.jres4 - 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 Consumer Gas-fired Instantaneous Water Heaters. (119th Congress)
Summary
This document is a joint resolution (S.J. Res. 4) introduced in the Senate during the 119th Congress. It aims to disapprove a rule issued by the Department of Energy (DOE) concerning energy conservation standards for consumer gas-fired instantaneous water heaters. The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA), specifically chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, to nullify the DOE rule.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this resolution would prevent the DOE's energy conservation standards for gas-fired instantaneous water heaters from taking effect. This means that manufacturers would not be required to comply with the new standards, and consumers would continue to have access to water heaters that may be less energy-efficient but potentially more affordable or better suited to their needs. The practical effect is to maintain the status quo regarding water heater efficiency standards.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially lower initial costs for consumers purchasing water heaters.
- Reduced regulatory burden on manufacturers of gas-fired water heaters.
- Preservation of consumer choice in selecting water heaters that meet their specific needs and preferences.
- Avoidance of potential disruptions to the supply chain or availability of certain types of water heaters.
- Upholding congressional oversight of executive agency rulemaking.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potentially slower progress in reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from water heaters.
- Reduced long-term cost savings for consumers who would have benefited from more energy-efficient water heaters.
- Delayed adoption of more environmentally friendly technologies in the water heating sector.
- Potential conflict with broader national goals related to energy efficiency and climate change mitigation.
- Increased energy costs for consumers over the long term.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
This resolution aligns with the principle of separation of powers, as it allows Congress to check the authority of the executive branch (specifically, the Department of Energy) in implementing regulations. Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution vests all legislative powers in Congress, which includes the power to review and disapprove agency rules. The Congressional Review Act, under which this resolution is brought, is a mechanism for Congress to exercise this oversight function. The resolution itself does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or protections.
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).