Federal efficiency rule for commercial refrigerators scrapped under HJRES 75

What does this do?

HJRES 75 cancels a Department of Energy rule published in January 2025 that would have set minimum energy efficiency standards for commercial refrigerators, freezers, and refrigerator-freezers. Congress used the Congressional Review Act to vote out the rule before it took effect, and the bill was signed into law on May 9, 2025. The Department of Energy is not blocked from writing a new rule on the same topic in the future.

Who does it affect?

The cancellation primarily affects businesses that buy commercial refrigeration equipment, such as grocery stores, restaurants, and convenience stores, as well as manufacturers of that equipment. Everyday consumers are not directly affected, since these are commercial appliances rather than home refrigerators.

Why does it matter?

Without the rule, manufacturers face no federal requirement to meet the stricter efficiency targets the Department of Energy had set, and businesses that purchase this equipment face no federal requirement to buy more efficient models. Energy efficiency standards can indirectly affect electricity use in commercial settings and the cost of goods sold there.

Where does it stand?