Advocacy
This Month in DC Overview: November 2025
November 20, 2025 | 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 This Month in DC Newsletter:
EPA Proposes Reconsideration of Technology Transition Rule
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed reconsidering its Technology Transition Rule, focusing on repealing the install date requirement for residential and light commercial air conditioners. HARDI supports this move and urges members to act. Submit your comment letters to both the EPA and Congress through this link, which advocates for a shift to manufacture-date-based compliance instead of install or sell-through dates.
Federal Court Upholds DOE Efficiency Rules
After a pause during the recent government shutdown, federal courts have resumed issuing decisions. In a pivotal ruling for the industry, the court sided with the Department of Energy in American Gas Association v. DOE, upholding the 95% efficiency standard for residential gas furnaces as well as new commercial water heater standards.
Although this ruling allows the rules to move forward, options remain. An appeal is still possible, and the incoming administration could also take action. HARDI will continue to monitor and report on any developments.
State Issues: Legal and Legislative Updates
California Governor Gavin Newsom recently vetoed Senate Bill 682 (SB 682) from being enacted. This comes after HARDI and other HVACR industry stakeholders advocated to have the HVACR prohibition removed from the legislation. The veto of SB 682 leaves California as a threat of PFAS prohibitions in 2026 against the HVACR industry.
New York State Governor Kathy Hochul delayed the state’s ban on fossil fuel infrastructure in new construction set to begin in 2026. This delay is only for the state-level fossil fuel infrastructure ban.
HARDI is actively challenging New York’s rushed and burdensome refrigerant regulation, 6 NYCRR Part 494, on all fronts. We’re pleased to report that the U.S. Small Business Administration included HARDI’s input in its official comment letter to the U.S. Department of Justice, highlighting how state rules disproportionately impact small businesses.
Are You Pre-Authorized with HARDIPAC?
HARDIPAC is HARDI’s nonpartisan political action committee that supports federal candidates who understand and prioritize key issues important to our industry, such as workforce development, taxation, and regulatory efficiency.
Federal law requires HARDIPAC to obtain prior written authorization from a company before sharing additional information about the PAC. Providing authorization does not obligate your company or employees to participate; it simply allows HARDI Advocacy to communicate with your eligible employees about HARDIPAC.
Members, mark your calendars for next year’s Congressional Fly-In on April 20–21 in Washington, DC.
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
Are You Your Company's Government Affairs Insider?
This overview video is just the tip of the HARDI Government Affairs iceberg! Ensure you stay informed on the latest Government Affairs and Advocacy updates by subscribing yourself or your company's key contact for these issues. Get the Federal and State issues information that is impacting the HVACR industry.
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.
