HJRES 20: 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".

HJRES 20 in plain English: This joint resolution nullifies a Department of Energy rule, published December 26, 2024, that set new energy conservation standards for consumer gas-fired instantaneous water heaters. Congress is using its authority to disapprove and void the rule before it takes effect.

Stated purpose

To cancel a Department of Energy rule that set new energy efficiency standards for gas-fired tankless (instantaneous) water heaters, so that the rule has no legal force or effect.

Key points

• Cancels a DOE rule that would have required higher energy efficiency standards for gas-fired tankless water heaters.
• The voided rule aimed for the maximum energy efficiency improvement DOE found technologically feasible and economically justified.
• Enacted into law as Public Law No. 119-6.

Arguments supporters make

• The new efficiency standards could have raised the purchase price of gas tankless water heaters, putting a financial burden on homeowners who need to replace or buy one.
• Congress has the right to check regulatory agencies and roll back rules it believes go beyond what is practical or affordable for consumers and businesses.
• Manufacturers would have faced costly redesign requirements, which can reduce competition and product choices in the marketplace.

Arguments opponents make

• The DOE determined these standards represented the maximum efficiency improvement that was both technically possible and economically justified, meaning the potential energy savings for consumers over time are being discarded.
• Blocking the rule means households will continue using less efficient water heaters, resulting in higher long-term energy bills and more natural gas consumption.
• Nullifying agency rules through congressional disapproval removes a standard process that relied on technical expertise and public comment, setting a precedent that undermines regulatory stability.

Tradeoffs

The resolution trades away potential long-term energy savings and reduced utility costs for consumers in exchange for avoiding higher upfront product costs and compliance burdens on manufacturers; it also reflects a tension between congressional oversight of federal agencies and the role of technical experts in setting efficiency policy.

Current status in Congress: Became law.

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