Advocacy
State Affairs Member Update: Q3 2026
September 22, 2026 | 3 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:
Refrigerant and Reporting Rules Take Center Stage
In Washington, HARDI is representing members on the state’s Refrigerant Task Force as discussions continue around transitioning to ultra-low-GWP refrigerants.
In New Mexico, enforcement of a new PFAS labeling requirement has been delayed while a legal challenge moves forward. Learn more about what's happening in New Mexico here.
Meanwhile, California has two significant reporting proposals on HARDI’s radar:
The California Energy Commission is considering requirements that could force distributors to disclose confidential business information, including sales transactions, customer lists, and market share.
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is also considering requirements that could allow audits of distributor customer lists and pricing information.
HARDI is opposing both proposals and encouraging members to engage through the Grassroots Advocacy Center.
Codes and Rebates Remain a Priority
HARDI has also been active on building, energy, and safety codes. The team opposed Washington proposals involving A3 refrigerants and energy-code provisions that could impact equipment replacements and dual-fuel systems.
In New York City, HARDI and AHRI raised concerns about Local Law 77’s A2L requirements, while nationally, HARDI supported extending the NEC deadline for GFCI protection of outdoor HVAC equipment due to product availability and implementation concerns.
HARDI also launched a Midstream Rebates Working Group to gather distributor feedback and develop recommendations for more effective rebate programs.
Grassroots Advocacy in Action
Member engagement is creating opportunities to bring policymakers directly into HVACR distribution. Following HARDI advocacy efforts, Geary Pacific Supply hosted a Colorado state representative, while conversations from HARDI’s Congressional Fly-In led to Rep. Greg Landsman visiting Johnstone Supply’s Cincinnati training facility.
Members can also take action through HARDI’s current grassroots campaigns, including support for the SMART Energy Efficiency Standards Act, which would eliminate the installation-date requirement for regional efficiency standards on split-system air conditioners.
HARDI will continue tracking state activity and advocating for distributors as 2026 progresses.
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.
