To require the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and the Secretary of Agriculture to withdraw a final determination relating to energy efficiency standards for housing, and for other purposes.
Summary
This bill, introduced in the Senate, aims to require the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Secretary of Agriculture to withdraw a final determination regarding energy efficiency standards for housing. It also restricts the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Federal Housing Finance Agency from implementing similar standards. The bill further amends the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act regarding state energy efficiency standards.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would reverse the adoption of new energy efficiency standards for HUD- and USDA-financed housing. It would also prevent federal agencies from implementing similar standards and potentially allow for consideration of state standards if at least 26 states meet or exceed them.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially lower construction costs for new housing due to less stringent energy efficiency requirements.
- May allow for greater flexibility in housing design and construction methods.
- Could reduce regulatory burdens on builders and developers.
- Supports state autonomy in setting energy efficiency standards.
- May lead to lower initial housing prices, making homes more affordable in the short term.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potentially increased energy consumption in new housing, leading to higher utility bills for residents.
- May slow down progress towards national energy efficiency goals.
- Could reduce the long-term value and durability of housing due to lower construction standards.
- May negatively impact environmental protection and climate action efforts.
- Could lead to inconsistencies in energy efficiency standards across different states and regions.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's focus on housing standards and federal agency actions falls under the purview of Congress's legislative powers, as outlined in Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce and spend for the general welfare. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).