The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has expressed its approval of the passage of H.J. Res. 20 by lawmakers. This resolution aims to overturn a rule from the Department of Energy (DOE) that would increase energy efficiency standards for consumer gas-fired instantaneous water heaters. The NFIB, which is a prominent advocate for small businesses, had previously sent a letter to the U.S. House of Representatives in support of this measure.
Adam Temple, NFIB Senior Vice President for Advocacy, stated, "Small businesses believe that consumers and business owners should have the freedom to decide which product works best for their specific needs, no matter what fuel source the product uses." He criticized the DOE's rule as it sets new energy efficiency standards that could effectively ban more affordable options like tankless water heaters.
Temple further noted that "according to one estimate, this regulation could eliminate 40% of the natural gas-fired water heaters on the market." This change might force consumers and small businesses with existing tankless water heaters to purchase more expensive and less efficient condensing water heaters.
The NFIB highlights inflation as an ongoing concern for small businesses and argues that regulations restricting or banning common appliances will only exacerbate costs. They expressed satisfaction with lawmakers' decision in the House to pass H.J. Res. 20, viewing it as a move to alleviate regulatory burdens on Main Street.
For those interested in further details, NFIB provides access to their full letter of support addressed to Congress members.
For eight decades, NFIB has been dedicated exclusively to advocating for America's small and independent business owners across Washington D.C., and all state capitals. As a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization since its founding in 1943, NFIB remains committed to supporting small businesses nationwide.
