Trump Vows to Reverse Biden-Era Appliance Efficiency Standards
President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that he would soon order a reversal of appliance efficiency regulations put in place during the Biden administration. Trump argued that these rules, which cover household items like lightbulbs, stoves, and washing machines, were a departure from "common sense" and would be rolled back to restore what he sees as more practical standards.
The Biden administration introduced these regulations to improve energy efficiency and reduce pollution, aiming to save consumers money in the long term. Some of the new standards were set to take effect in 2027 and 2028. However, Trump vowed to undo these changes, instructing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to reinstate the guidance that was issued during his first term. He specifically pointed to water standards and appliance efficiency measures for sinks, showers, toilets, washing machines, dishwashers, and lightbulbs, which he claimed were overturned by President Biden.
Trump made this announcement on Truth Social, emphasizing the need to return to what he described as "common sense" regulations. He also referenced his previous remarks about lightbulbs, where he humorously criticized the more efficient bulbs for their aesthetic effects, joking that they gave him an “orange look” and that he needed to replace them in some rooms at the White House.
The Biden administration’s 2023 decision to ban incandescent lightbulbs faced backlash, with Republican lawmakers criticizing the move. Rep. Keith Self (R-Texas) mocked the decision, calling it a loss for consumers, while Rep. Andy Barr (R-Ky.) accused the Biden administration of focusing on trivial issues like lightbulb types rather than addressing more pressing concerns like American energy independence.
Trump’s announcement signals his commitment to rolling back several of Biden’s environmental policies, particularly those that impact consumer products and energy standards.
