S.jres44 - 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. (119th Congress)
Summary
This document is a joint resolution (S.J. Res. 44) 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 commercial refrigerators, freezers, and refrigerator-freezers. The resolution invokes the Congressional Review Act (chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code) to nullify the DOE rule published in the Federal Register on January 21, 2025.
Expected Effects
If passed, this resolution would prevent the Department of Energy's energy conservation standards for commercial refrigeration equipment from taking effect. This could lead to lower initial costs for businesses purchasing such equipment, but potentially at the expense of greater energy consumption over the equipment's lifespan. The resolution reflects a congressional check on executive agency rulemaking.
Potential Benefits
- Potential cost savings for businesses in the short term due to potentially lower equipment prices.
- Reduced regulatory burden on manufacturers of commercial refrigeration equipment.
- Assertion of congressional authority over agency rulemaking.
- Could spur innovation in energy efficiency without mandated standards (though this is less certain).
- May allow for more flexibility in equipment design and features.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased energy consumption by commercial refrigeration equipment.
- Possible negative environmental impacts due to higher energy use.
- Delayed progress towards national energy conservation goals.
- Could lead to higher energy costs for businesses in the long run if equipment is less efficient.
- May create uncertainty for manufacturers who have already begun designing products to meet the new standards.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution is an exercise of Congress's legislative powers under Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in the Congress. Specifically, it utilizes the Congressional Review Act, which is a mechanism for Congress to review and potentially disapprove of agency regulations. This aligns with the principle of checks and balances, ensuring that executive agencies do not overstep their authority. The resolution itself does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or freedoms.
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).