Advocacy
This Month in DC Overview: April 2026
April 30, 2026 | 2 minute read
This Month in DC Overview
Alex Ayers gives us an overview of the most important things going on in DC this month. Highlights of this month's government affairs issues are:
Fly-In Momentum, Federal Shifts, and State-Level Watchpoints
HARDI’s recent Congressional Fly-In brought strong engagement, with 65 members holding over 130 meetings on Capitol Hill. Together we advocated for key priorities like EPCA reform, the AIM Act, tariffs, and workforce development.
EPA Rule Moves Forward—But Timing Matters
The EPA has advanced its technology transition rule reconsideration to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for interagency review, a process that typically takes up to 90 days. While that signals progress, it also means the rule likely won’t take effect until late in or after peak cooling season.
Distributors should stay informed on enforcement guidance, especially around R-410A equipment installations, to help customers navigate what’s allowed during the transition period.
Tariff Changes Could Drive Price Increases
Recent updates to Section 232 tariffs may have a bigger impact than expected. The shift from a 50% tariff on metal value to a 25% tariff on total product value, combined with the loss of certain exemptions, could significantly increase costs—particularly for products imported from Mexico.
DOE Rules and Legal Challenges Continue
The Department of Energy is considering delaying compliance dates for furnace and commercial water heater rules—both currently under legal challenge. HARDI has supported efforts to overturn these rules through an amicus brief and continues monitoring developments as the case progresses.
State-Level Issues to Watch
States continue to drive complex policy challenges:
Maryland: New “surveillance pricing” law could unintentionally affect B2B pricing models
New York: Ongoing legal battle over refrigerant restrictions, with a temporary restraining order in place
California: Upcoming 2028 energy code may introduce variable airflow requirements for commercial systems
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 federal rules advancing, tariffs shifting, and states introducing new complexities, staying informed is critical. HARDI continues to advocate for practical, member-focused solutions across all levels of government.
Alex Ayers
Vice President of Government Affairs
Alex is HARDI’s lead lobbyist and regulatory expert, with over a decade of experience in Washington, DC. A former Iowa caucus delegate, he built early roots in grassroots politics. He has lobbied, published, and testified on taxes, energy, environment, agriculture, and economics. His work has been cited by the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and the Tax Foundation.
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.
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.
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.
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