Us Congress House Bill HJR170

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/27/24
• Refer: 6/27/24

Caption

Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Agriculture relating to "Final Determination: Adoption of Energy Efficiency Standards for New Construction of HUD- and USDA-Financed Housing".

Impact

If enacted, HJR170 would effectively nullify the specified energy efficiency standards prior to their implementation. Proponents argue this measure protects builders from potentially costly compliance requirements and allows greater flexibility in addressing local housing needs. Critics, however, argue that rolling back these standards could lead to long-term higher energy costs for homeowners and hinder efforts toward sustainable housing practices. They claim that energy efficiency measures are vital in reducing overall energy demand and associated costs for families, thereby justifying their implementation.

Summary

HJR170 is a joint resolution that seeks to disapprove a rule set forth by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA) concerning the adoption of energy efficiency standards for new construction of housing financed by these agencies. Specifically, the resolution targets the final determination made by HUD and USDA published in the Federal Register, which was intended to establish standards aimed at improving energy efficiency in federally financed residences. The members of Congress supporting this resolution assert that the imposition of these standards could create additional burdens on developers and affect housing affordability.

Contention

The resolution has sparked debate, particularly among those concerned with environmental impacts and energy conservation. Supporters of HJR170 emphasize the economic factors, arguing that excessive regulations could impede housing development and result in increased housing prices, especially in areas that need affordable housing. In contrast, opposition voices highlight the importance of energy standards in promoting sustainability, reducing emissions, and ensuring that new housing meets modern efficiency benchmarks. This conflict underscores a broader conversation about balancing economic growth and environmental responsibility in housing policy.