Committee advances repeal efforts for two DOE 'midnight' efficiency rules after dueling testimony on costs and savings

The House Rules Committee approved closed rules to permit floor consideration of two Congressional Review Act measures — H.J. Res. 24 and H.J. Res. 75 — that seek to overturn recently finalized Department of Energy energy‑efficiency standards for walk‑in coolers and freezers and for commercial refrigeration equipment.

Why it matters: Supporters of repeal argued the DOE rules impose substantial upfront costs on small, independent retailers and rural businesses and may rely on test procedures that do not reflect real‑world use. Opponents said the standards will produce net energy and cost savings over time for businesses and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Representative Bob Latta, who introduced testimony supporting the resolutions, told the committee that DOE’s rules "go well beyond its authority" and that the agency’s cost estimates do not capture installation, building retrofits, downtime and supply‑chain effects. Latta said…