Advocacy
State Affairs Member Update: Q2 2026
June 18, 2026 | 4 minute read
HARDI State Affairs Member Update
Todd Titus, Zac Johnson, and Madison Romero give us an overview of the most important issues on the State Affairs side of the industry. Highlights of this quarter's issues are:
New York Part 494 Update and Ultra-Low GWP Developments
One of HARDI’s top priorities remains New York’s Part 494 regulation. While legislation aimed at correcting the regulation did not pass before the end of the legislative session, the effort received significant support from lawmakers, creating momentum for future action.
In parallel, HARDI and AHRI continue to pursue legal action against the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). The case is currently in the appeals process, with additional filings and oral arguments expected in the coming months.
Meanwhile, Washington State is beginning the process of forming a task force that will develop recommendations related to ultra-low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants. HARDI is actively advocating for balanced representation and meaningful industry participation throughout that process.
Protecting Distributor Data in California
The team is working to oppose a proposed California Energy Commission (CEC) reporting mandate that would require distributors to disclose confidential business information, including sales transactions, customer lists, and market share data. To protect member interests, HARDI has developed an alternative proposal that would preserve data privacy while still addressing the state's objectives.
Legislative Wins in Colorado and Florida
HARDI secured important victories for members in both Colorado and Florida.
In Colorado, HARDI supported legislation that removes ultra-low NOx requirements for manufactured homes. Under the new law, manufactured homes will not be subject to NOx requirements until 2031, when a low-NOx standard will take effect.
In Florida, HARDI successfully opposed legislation that could have created significant confusion regarding the legality of A2L refrigerants. Preventing the bill from advancing helped maintain market stability and regulatory certainty for distributors and contractors.
Building Codes and Rebate Program Advocacy
Since joining HARDI in March, Senior Policy Lead Zac Johnson has expanded the association’s state advocacy efforts into building codes and rebate programs.
HARDI is actively engaged in code discussions in Washington State and Denver, Colorado, where proposals could significantly impact HVAC equipment installations and fuel-neutral compliance pathways. The team is also monitoring the development of a Zero-Emission Heating Equipment Standards Model Rule, advocating for consumer choice and practical policies that avoid unnecessary burdens on the supply chain.
On the rebate front, HARDI is tracking changes to the federal High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate program and engaging with stakeholders on Maryland’s Empower Maryland midstream rebate initiative to improve member education and program implementation.
Grassroots Advocacy Driving Results
HARDI’s public affairs efforts delivered strong results during Q2. Members and contractors sent more than 1,000 messages to New York legislators regarding Part 494, while grassroots campaigns helped support legislative success in Colorado and ongoing advocacy efforts in California.
Additionally, public polling conducted in New York found that 80% of homeowners believe regulations should be slowed or adjusted if they increase costs for consumers, providing valuable insight that supports HARDI’s advocacy efforts.
As state policy activity continues to accelerate, HARDI is currently tracking nearly 400 issues nationwide to help protect member businesses and promote practical, industry-friendly solutions.
Explore HARDI's Industry Issues and State Issues pages and stay up to date on the latest issues affecting the HVACR industry.
Read more on what's affecting our industry here: HARDI's Advocacy Blogs
Stay Informed with HARDI Advocacy
With state-level rules, building codes, and rebate programs advancing, staying informed is critical. HARDI continues to advocate for practical, member-focused solutions across all levels of government, but don't miss your opportunity to hear the news and stay informed with HARDI.
Todd Titus
Director of State Government Affairs
Todd Titus, J.D. is HARDI's Director of State Government Affairs. As the lead of HARDI's new state affairs department, Todd monitors legislative and regulatory issues across all 50 states to inform HARDI membership about the legislation that impacts the industry. Along with informing membership of key issues, Todd also spearheads grassroots initiatives, advocates before elected officials, and networks in person with relevant stakeholders.
Zac Johnson
Senior Policy Lead
Zac Johnson is HARDI’s Senior Policy Lead for Codes & Rebates. He’s responsible for state and local HVACR code adoption and utility rebate programs, analyzing building, mechanical, energy, and fire code proposals that affect equipment installation, compliance, and affordability. Zac brings deep knowledge of the manufacturing industry having managed HVAC product development, test system design, and advocacy efforts on major industry committees shaping codes and standards development.
Madison Romero
Public Affairs Associate
Madison Romero is HARDI’s Public Affairs Associate, supporting the industry advocacy of the Government Affairs team through strategic writing, grassroots campaigns, and media outreach. She crafts messaging that connects HARDI’s advocacy goals with its members as well as broader HVACR industry audiences. Madison also contributes to developing content around industry events and external communications efforts across platforms.
You might be interested in...
