Us Congress Senate Bill SJR4

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/25
• Refer: 1/23/25

Caption

This joint resolution nullifies the rule titled Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for Consumer Gas-fired Instantaneous Water Heaters and submitted by the Department of Energy (DOE) on December 26, 2024. Under the rule, DOE adopted amended energy conservation standards for gas-fired instantaneous water heaters to achieve the maximum improvement in energy efficiency that DOE determined was technologically feasible and economically justified.

Impact

The passage of SJR4 would have significant implications for state and federal energy regulations, particularly in how energy efficiency standards are applied in the consumer market. By disapproving the DOE's standard, the bill aims to keep existing regulations in place, which some believe may hinder progress towards greater environmental sustainability. The resolution may also serve as a signal that Congress prioritizes business interests over increased regulatory measures that could potentially elevate consumer costs.

Summary

SJR4 is a joint resolution aimed at nullifying a specific rule set by the Department of Energy (DOE) regarding energy conservation standards for consumer gas-fired instantaneous water heaters. Introduced in the Senate, this resolution reflects congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, effectively eliminating the updated energy standards proposed by the DOE on December 26, 2024. The original rule sought to enhance energy efficiency for these appliances, which proponents argue is necessary for promoting sustainable energy practices.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SJR4 is divided among stakeholders, with business interests typically supporting the disapproval as a means of preventing potentially onerous standards that could increase operational costs. Opponents of the bill, including environmental advocates, argue that maintaining strict energy efficiency standards is crucial for reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This tension highlights the ongoing debate between economic growth and environmental responsibility in legislative discussions.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance of power between regulatory agencies and Congress, particularly regarding the authority of the DOE to set energy standards without direct congressional approval. Proponents of SJR4 contend that the legislative branch should play a more active role in the regulatory process, while critics warn that such disapprovals may lead to regulatory uncertainty and undermine the progress made towards energy conservation goals.

Congress_id

119-SJRES-4

Policy_area

Energy

Introduced_date

2025-01-23