H.J.Res.24 - 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 Walk-In Coolers and Walk-In Freezers. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.J.Res.24 is a joint resolution passed by the House of Representatives that disapproves of a rule submitted by the Department of Energy (DOE) concerning energy conservation standards for walk-in coolers and freezers. The rule in question is identified as ``Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for Walk-In Coolers and Walk-In Freezers'' (89 Fed. Reg. 104616 (December 23, 2024)).
The resolution aims to nullify this DOE rule, preventing it from taking effect. This action is taken under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, which provides a mechanism for congressional review of agency rulemaking.
The resolution was passed by the House on March 27, 2025.
Expected Effects
If the resolution is enacted, the Department of Energy's rule regarding energy conservation standards for walk-in coolers and freezers will not be enforced. Businesses that manufacture, sell, or use these coolers and freezers will not be subject to the specific requirements outlined in the disapproved rule.
This could lead to lower initial costs for these businesses, but potentially higher long-term energy consumption. The absence of the rule could also impact the overall energy efficiency goals of the Department of Energy.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces compliance costs for businesses manufacturing, selling, or using walk-in coolers and freezers.
- May lead to lower initial purchase prices for equipment if manufacturers are not required to meet stringent energy efficiency standards.
- Could offer businesses more flexibility in choosing equipment that best suits their operational needs, rather than being constrained by specific energy efficiency requirements.
- Potentially avoids disruptions or delays in the supply chain that might have resulted from compliance with the new standards.
- May prevent potential job losses in industries affected by the energy conservation standards, although this is speculative.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potentially increases energy consumption due to the lack of updated efficiency standards.
- May lead to higher long-term operating costs for businesses due to increased energy usage.
- Could hinder the achievement of national energy conservation goals.
- Potentially reduces the incentive for manufacturers to innovate and develop more energy-efficient technologies.
- May negatively impact environmental quality by contributing to higher greenhouse gas emissions.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution is an exercise of Congress's legislative power under Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in the Congress. The Congressional Review Act, under which this resolution is enacted, is a mechanism by which Congress can check the power of the executive branch in implementing regulations.
This aligns with the principle of separation of powers and provides a check and balance on the regulatory actions of federal agencies. The disapproval of a rule is a legislative act, requiring passage by both houses of Congress and presentment to the President (or override of a presidential veto).
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).