A bill to require the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and the Secretary of Agriculture to withdraw a final determination relating to energy efficiency standards for housing, and for other purposes.
A bill to require the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and the Secretary of Agriculture to withdraw a final determination relating to energy efficiency standards for housing, and for other purposes.
Plain Language Summary
# Summary of S 3178 **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would require two federal agencies—the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA)—to withdraw a final determination they made regarding energy efficiency standards for housing. While the bill's text doesn't specify the exact standards in question, it appears to target a recent regulatory decision by these agencies, likely related to how efficient new or renovated homes must be. If passed, the bill would essentially undo or reverse this efficiency requirement. **Who It Affects** This legislation would impact homebuilders, homeowners, and potentially renters. Homebuilders might face fewer requirements for installing energy-efficient features like insulation, windows, or appliances in new construction.
Homeowners and renters could see differences in their utility costs and long-term housing expenses, depending on whether energy-efficient features become standard or optional. The bill could also affect government-backed housing programs administered by HUD and USDA. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. Sponsor John Barrasso is a Republican from Wyoming. Without additional details about the specific standards being challenged, it's difficult to assess the bill's broader implications for climate goals or housing costs.
Latest Action
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. (text: CR S8206)