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 for Appliance Standards: Certification Requirements, Labeling Requirements, and Enforcement Provisions for Certain Consumer Products and Commercial Equipment”.
Key claim: Congress nullified the Department of Energy’s October 9, 2024 rule that had tightened certification, labeling, and enforcement requirements under the Energy Conservation Program for certain consumer appliances and commercial equipment.
Abstract
(HJRES42 · 119th Congress) This joint resolution eliminates new, more stringent certification, labeling, and enforcement requirements related to energy conservation standards for specific types of appliances. Specifically, the joint resolution nullifies a rule titled the Energy Conservation Program for Appliance Standards: Certification Requirements, Labeling Requirements, and Enforcement Provisions for Certain Consumer Products and Commercial Equipment and published by the Department of Energy (DOE) on October 9, 2024. Under the rule, DOE modified its regulations on the energy efficiency of certain types of consumer products (e.g., washing machines and dishwashers) and industrial equipment (e.g., computer room air conditioners). DOE modified certification requirements, labeling requirements, and enforcement provisions for these products and equipment to (1) align reporting requirements with currently applicable energy conservation standards and test procedures, and (2) provide DOE with the information necessary to determine the appropriate classification of products for the application of standards. Latest action (2025-05-09): Became Public Law No: 119-8.
Why this matters
The CRA disapproval permanently voids DOE’s tightened certification, labeling, and enforcement mechanisms for covered consumer appliances and commercial equipment, weakening the compliance backbone that supports underlying efficiency standards. Under the CRA, DOE is also barred from reissuing a substantially similar rule absent new statutory authorization, constraining future administrative options. Practically, manufacturers face lower near-term reporting and enforcement burdens, while advocates warn of reduced verification of energy and cost savings claims.