This Month in DC Overview: August 2026

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:

HARDI Puts New Economic Impact Data to Work

HARDI released its first-ever study focused specifically on the economic impact of HVACR wholesale distribution. Beyond demonstrating the channel’s contribution to the economy and employment, the study expands HARDI’s ability to analyze how future policies could impact the industry.

HARDI Weighs In on DOE Rulemaking

HARDI joined a broad coalition of trade associations advocating for changes to the Department of Energy’s Process Rule, which governs how new energy-efficiency regulations are developed. HARDI supports restoring provisions that protect consumers, maintain affordability, and ensure efficiency standards deliver meaningful benefits.

HARDI also welcomed FinCEN’s plan to delete previously collected beneficial ownership information and continues supporting legislation to repeal the underlying reporting requirement.

Trade Issues Take Center Stage

With another round of USMCA negotiations approaching, HARDI supported congressional efforts encouraging continuation of the agreement.

In Canada, new retaliatory tariffs include more than $1 billion CAD in HVACR imports and could affect roughly 20% to 25% of the Canadian market. HARDI is monitoring the dispute and its potential impact on distributors.

Codes and Standards Keep Moving

A GFCI requirement is expected to take effect September 1 in approximately 32 states unless a proposed extension is adopted.

In California, HARDI and the American Supply Association are opposing burdensome recordkeeping requirements connected to Bay Area water heater regulations. HARDI is also monitoring a Ninth Circuit decision involving zero-NOx regulations in Southern California and its potential implications for EPCA preemption.

New York’s Part 494 Challenges Continue

New York regulators continue using enforcement discretion to address portions of Part 494, including requirements affecting VRF systems and remote condensing units. HARDI continues to monitor these changes while raising broader concerns with the regulation.

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.