Congress Considers Rejection of Department of Energy’s Walk-In Cooler and Freezer Efficiency Standards
On May 15, 2025, the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) published a significant piece of legislation: House Joint Resolution 24 (ENR). This resolution, formally titled “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,” indicates a direct challenge by Congress to new energy efficiency standards proposed by the Department of Energy (DOE) for walk-in coolers and freezers.
The Congressional Review Act (CRA), referenced in the resolution’s title, provides Congress with the authority to review, amend, or nullify regulations issued by federal agencies. A joint resolution of disapproval, like H.J. Res. 24, is the mechanism through which Congress can exercise this power to overturn a specific rule.
The rule in question pertains to the Energy Conservation Program administered by the DOE, focusing specifically on the energy efficiency standards for walk-in coolers and walk-in freezers. These types of equipment are commonly found in commercial settings such as grocery stores, restaurants, and food service establishments, playing a crucial role in maintaining perishable goods.
While the specific details of the DOE’s proposed standards are not fully elaborated in the provided information, the introduction of a joint resolution of disapproval suggests that members of Congress have concerns about the potential impact of these regulations. These concerns could range from the economic feasibility of implementing the new standards for businesses, the effectiveness of the proposed measures in achieving energy savings, or potential unintended consequences on the availability or cost of walk-in units.
The publication of H.J. Res. 24 marks the formal beginning of the legislative process to potentially overturn the DOE’s rule. The resolution will now likely proceed through committee review and debate in the House of Representatives. If passed by the House, it would then move to the Senate for consideration. For the resolution to become law and effectively nullify the DOE’s rule, it would need to be approved by both chambers of Congress and subsequently signed by the President.
This development highlights the ongoing dialogue and potential policy shifts regarding energy efficiency regulations in the United States, particularly within the commercial sector. The outcome of H.J. Res. 24 will be closely watched by industry stakeholders, consumers, and environmental advocates alike.
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www.govinfo.gov published ‘H.J. Res. 24 (ENR) – Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Energy relatin g to Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for Walk-In Coolers and Walk-In Freezers.’ at 2025-05-15 19:39. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.