April 9, 2025 Repeal of Federal Regulation Defining “Showerhead” - Executive Order
- Fact Seeker
- Jul 27
- 2 min read
This executive order directs the repeal of a prior Department of Energy regulation that established a detailed federal definition of the term “showerhead.” The action is framed as part of a broader effort to reduce regulatory overreach and remove burdens that, according to the administration, limit consumer freedom and economic activity.
Background and Rationale:
The order characterizes previous administrations’ energy efficiency regulations—specifically those concerning showerheads—as excessive, bureaucratic oversteps. It cites two prior regulations from 2013 and 2021 that together devoted over 13,000 words to defining and testing showerheads. The President argues that such detailed rulemaking is unnecessary for common household items and invokes the Oxford English Dictionary’s brief definition as a more suitable standard.
Key Provisions:
Repeal of Showerhead Regulation:
The Department of Energy (DOE) is directed to rescind the rule titled Energy Conservation Program: Definition of Showerhead (86 Fed. Reg. 71797, December 20, 2021).
This includes the removal of the definition codified at 10 C.F.R. § 430.2.
The DOE is instructed to publish the rescission in the Federal Register, effective 30 days after publication.
The order states that formal notice-and-comment procedures under the Administrative Procedure Act are not required because the President is mandating the repeal.
Regulatory Streamlining Intent:
This action is positioned as part of a broader anti-regulation agenda, aimed at protecting personal freedom and preventing federal micromanagement of consumer goods.
Administrative and Legal Provisions:
Budgetary Impact: The order does not alter the existing responsibilities of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in relation to administrative or legislative matters.
Legal Compliance: Implementation is subject to applicable laws and the availability of appropriated funds.
No Private Rights Created: The order does not create enforceable legal rights for individuals or entities.
Context:
The executive order is part of a symbolic and substantive effort to roll back what the administration views as unnecessary federal regulations. While the direct economic impact of removing the federal definition of “showerhead” is likely minimal, the action is presented as an example of reducing federal intrusion into everyday life and consumer choice.
Writer's Note: Summary made with the use of AI tools for editing and quick processing, facts checked against the order before publishing.
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