Republicans in Congress are pushing back against President Biden's recent ban on non-condensing natural gas water heaters, set to take effect in 2029. Representative Gary Palmer (R-AL) has introduced a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to overturn the Department of Energy's rule, arguing it's an example of government overreach that disregards consumer interests. Palmer believes the ban will impose significant financial burdens on Americans who would need to purchase more expensive compliant water heaters.
While proponents of the ban, such as the Appliance Standards Awareness Project, claim it will significantly reduce carbon emissions, Palmer contends the economic consequences for working families outweigh the purported environmental benefits. He expressed confidence that the CRA will pass the House, citing support from several Republican co-sponsors, including Rep. Eric Burlison (R-MO), who criticized the ban as a "green energy scam" aimed at controlling consumers and increasing costs. Other co-sponsors include Reps. Julia Letlow (LA), Mike Collins (GA), Randy Weber (TX), Stephanie Bice (OK), Barry Moore (AL), Andy Ogles (TN), Claudia Tenney (NY), Russ Fulcher (ID), Jack Bergman (MI), Dan Crenshaw (TX), Michelle Fischbach (MN), Jeff Hurd (CO), and Jim Baird (IN).
The National Propane Gas Association also backs the effort to overturn the ban, arguing it will eliminate the market for non-condensing instantaneous gas water heaters and force families to purchase costly replacements for minimal energy savings. This ban is part of a broader trend of Biden administration regulations targeting various household appliances, including washing machines, gas stoves, and ceiling fans. Palmer indicated that the Republican-controlled Congress plans to actively roll back several regulations stemming from Biden's climate agenda.
