Congressman Gary Palmer’s resolution to reverse a Biden administration rule on natural gas water heaters has passed the Senate and is now headed to President Donald Trump’s desk. The legislation repeals a Department of Energy rule that set higher efficiency standards for certain natural gas water heaters, which were set to start in 2029. Republicans are targeting multiple energy regulations put in place by the Biden administration.
The joint resolution passed the Senate with a vote of 53-44, with Alabama Sens. Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville voting in favor. Sen. Ted Cruz sponsored the legislation in the Senate. Palmer used the Congressional Review Act to repeal the rule, which restricts agencies from issuing a substantially similar rule within 60 days.
Palmer praised the Senate for passing the legislation, stating that it protects gas water heaters and consumers. The American Gas Association also supported the resolution, arguing that the rule would limit consumer choice and disproportionately affect seniors and low-income Americans.
Opponents of the bill, such as the Appliance Standards Awareness Project, argued that repealing the rule would result in higher costs for families and maintain an outdated technology in the market. The Department of Energy estimated that the rule would save households $7.6 billion per year on energy and water bills, while Palmer argued it would actually cost consumers more money.
The House passed Palmer’s resolution in February, and Trump is expected to sign it soon.
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