Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Block Costly Energy Regulations on Small Businesses

Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted in support of H.J. Res. 24, a resolution to overturn a sweeping energy efficiency rule finalized in the final weeks of the Biden Administration. The rule would force small grocers, gas stations, and local retailers to make expensive upgrades to walk-in coolers and freezers or face penalties.

“This regulation is the legacy of an administration that was out of touch with working people,” said Congressman Harrigan. “Small businesses are already battling inflation, supply chain issues, and labor shortages. The last thing they need is another mandate that drives up costs for them and for the families they serve.”

The Department of Energy finalized the rule in December 2024, just weeks before the end of the Biden presidency. The mandate would require costly new equipment, electrical upgrades, and structural renovations, which would be especially difficult for stores operating on tight margins. These costs would be passed directly to consumers and could force some businesses to shut their doors.

H.J. Res. 24 uses the Congressional Review Act to block the rule before it fully takes effect. Congressman Harrigan is calling on the Senate to act quickly to protect small businesses from another blow dealt by overregulation.