H.R.1345 - Gas Can Freedom Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1345, the "Gas Can Freedom Act of 2025," aims to repeal the Portable Fuel Container Safety Act of 2020 and the Children's Gasoline Burn Prevention Act. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 13, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
The primary objective is to remove regulations related to flame mitigation devices and child-resistance requirements for portable gasoline containers. The bill argues for deregulation in this specific area, potentially reducing manufacturing costs for portable fuel containers.
Ultimately, the bill seeks to eliminate the authority of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to enforce specific safety standards related to portable fuel containers.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R.1345 would eliminate federal regulations mandating flame mitigation devices and child-resistance features in portable gasoline containers. This could lead to lower production costs for manufacturers.
However, it may also increase the risk of accidents and injuries related to fuel containers, particularly burns affecting children. The CPSC would be prohibited from reinstating similar regulations.
The practical effect is a shift in responsibility, potentially placing a greater burden on consumers to ensure safety when handling gasoline.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced Manufacturing Costs: Repealing the regulations could lower the cost of producing portable fuel containers, potentially leading to lower prices for consumers.
- Increased Consumer Choice: Without mandatory safety features, consumers may have a wider range of options in terms of price and features.
- Reduced Regulatory Burden: The bill aims to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses, aligning with a philosophy of less government intervention.
- Potential for Innovation: Manufacturers might explore alternative safety solutions if not constrained by specific regulatory requirements.
- Alignment with Individual Liberty: Some may argue that individuals should have the freedom to choose products without government-mandated safety features.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Risk of Accidents: Removing flame mitigation devices and child-resistance features could increase the risk of gasoline-related accidents, especially burns.
- Vulnerability of Children: The repeal of the Children's Gasoline Burn Prevention Act specifically puts children at greater risk of injury.
- Potential for Higher Healthcare Costs: An increase in accidents could lead to higher healthcare costs for individuals and the healthcare system.
- Weakened Consumer Protection: The bill weakens consumer protection by removing mandatory safety standards for a potentially dangerous product.
- Environmental Concerns: While not explicitly stated, less safe containers could lead to increased spills and environmental contamination.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is complex. Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce under Article I, Section 8, which includes the ability to regulate product safety. However, some argue that excessive regulation infringes on individual liberty.
The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states or the people. Arguments could be made that regulating portable fuel containers is a matter best left to the states.
Ultimately, the constitutionality of the bill would likely depend on a balancing test, weighing the federal government's interest in regulating commerce and promoting safety against individual liberty and state autonomy.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).