Appliance standards and destruction overshadow Christmas in Bethlehem and Gaza

The Energy Department is updating efficiency standards for appliances, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save Americans billions of dollars annually. However, these standards have become a contentious issue in the culture war, with opponents arguing that they restrict consumer choices and increase installation costs. Former President Donald Trump and many conservatives criticize efficiency standards, but research shows that newer appliances actually work better. The Biden administration is working to catch up on updating standards that haven't been revised for a decade or more, with the goal of saving consumers money.