December 4, 2012
Contact: Francis Dietz, Vice President, Public Affairs
Direct: 703.600.0355

Arlington, VA — The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) today commended the House of Representatives, and the exemplary bi-partisan cooperation displayed by 15 original co-sponsors, in passing H.R.6582, the American Energy Manufacturers Technical Corrections Act. AHRI and its member companies worked diligently with Congressional co-sponsors to gain passage of the bill, which has been an industry priority this Congressional session.

“This common sense legislation corrects federal energy use standards for small-duct high-velocity systems and service-over–the-counter products while expanding consumer choices for water heaters and commercial walk-in freezers and refrigerators,” said AHRI President and CEO Stephen Yurek. “By codifying standards for these products, H.R.6582 will create much needed stability and regulatory certainty for manufacturers and positively impact thousands of workers across the United States.

Taking this vital step toward expanding consumer choice for water heaters and commercial refrigeration products will open market opportunities for these manufacturers, further helping to spur our economic recovery,” he added.
Yurek pointed to the overwhelming support for the bill in the House as evidence the Senate should move quickly to consider and pass the bill.

The commitment to find a path toward passage displayed by Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, Subcommittee Chairman Ed Whitfield, Ranking Member Henry Waxman, and their dedicated staff, demonstrates how effectively Congress can work across the political spectrum when there is a mutual interest. AHRI also commends the work done by the original authors and sponsors of the bill, especially: Congressman Robert Aderholt (R-AL), Russ Carnahan (D-MO), John Shimkus (R-IL), Lynn Westmoreland (R-GA), Bruce Braley (D-IA), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Phil Roe (R-TN), and Jim Cooper (D-TN).

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About AHRI
The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) is the trade association representing manufacturers of air conditioning, heating, commercial refrigeration, and water heating equipment. An internationally recognized advocate for the industry, AHRI develops standards for and certifies the performance of many of these products. AHRI’s 309 member companies manufacture quality, efficient, and innovative residential and commercial air conditioning, space heating, water heating, and commercial refrigeration equipment and components for sale in North America and around the world.