Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated legal action against the Biden Administration, challenging a new regulation that would prohibit the sale of certain gas-powered water heaters. The rule, issued by the Department of Energy on December 26, 2024, aims to ban non-condensing instantaneous natural gas water heaters.
Paxton argues that this regulation will negatively impact seniors and low-income households by reducing market options and compelling consumers to purchase products that require more energy for the same functionality. He has joined forces with a coalition led by Georgia, Kansas, and Tennessee to contest the implementation of this rule.
The lawsuit also includes support from various organizations such as the National Propane Gas Association, the National Association of Homebuilders, and Rinnai Corporation. Attorney General Paxton stated: “It makes no sense to ban better performing instantaneous water heaters in the name of ‘green energy’ and force consumers to purchase more expensive and less efficient models. Beyond being ridiculous, it is an unlawful abuse of power.” He further expressed his commitment to defending Texas against what he describes as "the chronic lawlessness" of the Biden Administration.