Bill > HB672

This bill establishes minimum energy and water conservation standards for certain appliances and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in Virginia. If federal energy or water conservation standards, as defined by the federal Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 (EPCA) and its associated regulations (specifically 10 C.F.R. Parts 430 and 431) as of January 1, 2026, are removed or voided by the U.S. Secretary of Energy or the federal government, Virginia's Department of Energy will adopt standards equivalent to those federal standards that were in effect on that date. The bill prohibits the sale, lease, rental, and manufacture of products that do not meet or exceed these established standards, requiring manufacturers to test their products according to the federal test procedures and certify compliance through approved third-party databases. However, this bill does not apply to any standards overturned by a court or to products where federal law prevents Virginia from imposing these standards, such as those with specific federal development requirements or existing federal standards. Violations of these provisions will be considered prohibited practices under the Virginia Consumer Protection Act, meaning consumers who are harmed by non-compliant products could have legal recourse.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB672