House Rep. Doyle Heffley, R-Weissport, is pictured with Robert F. Kennedy, federal Health and Human Services secretary.

House Democrats appear ready to approve legislation that would implement new energy efficiency standards – and House Rep. Doyle Heffley is staunchly opposed.

House Bill 660 was introduced in February 2025 and referred to the Energy Committee. It was laid on the table in March, with nothing happening again until December, when it was removed from the table. Democrats attempted to suspend the House rules on Jan. 28, but that motion was defeated by Republicans, 101-98. House Bill 660 was then sent to the Appropriations Committee, where it was approved Monday by a 22-15 vote.

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Jennifer O’Mara, D-Media, has 43 co-sponsors. All are Democrats with the exception of Rep. Thomas MeHaffie, R-Hershey. The legislation largely ties new purchases to federal EPA “Energy Star” program guidelines.

“An analysis of last session’s bill showed that these efficiency standards could reduce climate pollution by an estimated 384 tons, conserve over nine billion gallons of water and save consumers approximately $294 million per year on their utility bills.

Appliances that meet these standards are already on the market, competitively priced and available to Pennsylvania consumers and businesses today,” O’Mara wrote in her co-sponsorship memorandum.

Heffley, R-Weissport, said Friday he is opposing what he calls “aggressive” energy efficiency standards on household appliances, including outdoor grills. He warns the bill could lead to higher costs for families and businesses, limit consumer choice and open the door for municipalities to restrict outdoor grilling.

“Outdoor grilling is a cherished tradition for families across the Commonwealth,” said Heffley. “House Bill 660 doesn’t just raise prices; it threatens personal freedom and could allow local governments to interfere with how Pennsylvanians enjoy their own backyards.”

Heffley authored an amendment to guarantee the right to grill responsibly without local interference, but said the amendment was defeated by House Democrats.

House progressives refused to allow a vote on his proposal during the House voting session last week. The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) in Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry have joined Heffley in opposing House Bill 660, citing concerns the bill prioritizes marginal energy savings over performance, creates inconsistent standards, and will ultimately increase costs for families and businesses.

“Energy efficiency matters, but it must be balanced with affordability, practicality and personal freedom,” Heffley added. “Government should not be in the business of picking winners and losers or creating a patchwork of regulations that drive up costs and reduce options.”