Advocacy
This Month in DC Overview: March 2026
March 26, 2026 | 3 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:
EPA Rulemaking Status, While Industry Pressures Build
While there’s currently no public update, that’s expected at this stage. The EPA is reviewing comments and drafting the final rule behind the scenes. The next major milestone will be when the rule moves to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for interagency review—a process that typically takes about 90 days.
Factoring in that timeline, plus the required 30 days before implementation, the industry is likely looking at a rule taking effect well into the cooling season. That makes it critical for distributors to understand and clearly communicate EPA enforcement discretion, particularly around installing 410A equipment. Read more about the rulemaking status here.
Preparing for the Next Phase of A2L Transition
As the A2L transition progresses, attention is shifting to commercial refrigeration and safety standards. HARDI recently hosted a webinar with Chemours covering the history of A2Ls and best practices for safe installation—an important resource for members navigating this transition.
Strengthening Advocacy: New Codes & Rebates Expertise
HARDI recently welcomed Zac Johnson as Senior Policy Lead for Codes and Rebates, expanding the association’s focus on local code issues and rebate programs.
Zach’s early work includes a deep dive into midstream rebates, analyzing how members are using them and where improvements are needed. Member feedback will be critical in shaping more effective rebate programs moving forward.
State Spotlight: New York and Oregon
New York remains a major concern due to its upcoming ultra-low GWP refrigerant requirements under Part 494. HARDI has warned of potential refrigerant shortages and continues advocating for relief, though regulators have declined enforcement flexibility.
Distributors should also be aware of upcoming reporting requirements tied to these policies.
Meanwhile, Oregon has passed a code requiring heat pumps instead of traditional air conditioners. While not a furnace ban, it effectively pushes dual-fuel or heat pump-only systems—raising important questions about market impact and consumer choice.
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
Join HARDI in Washington DC!
Members, mark your calendars for this year's Congressional Fly-In on April 20–21 in Washington, DC. This is your chance to get face-to-face with lawmakers on Capitol Hill and advocate for policies that strengthen the HVACR industry.
Alex Ayers
Alex Ayers is the Vice President of Government Affairs for Heating, Air-conditioning, & Refrigeration Distributors International. As a recovering political nerd and current policy wonk, Alex is HARDI’s primary lobbyist and regulatory expert. Growing up in Iowa, Alex was exposed early to local politics through the first in the nation Iowa Caucuses, participating as a county caucus delegate to develop the grassroots planks that go into creating the party platform. Since moving to Washington, DC, Alex has spent over a decade lobbying, publishing papers, and testifying in various policy areas, including taxes, energy, environment, agriculture, and economics. His research has been cited by organizations such as the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and the Tax Foundation.
Expertise: HVACR Policy, Government Affairs, and Political Advocacy
Please contact events@hardinet.org to book Alex as a speaker at your next conference or event. Press Contacts - to request a quote or an interview, complete this form.
Todd Titus
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
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.
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