SHOWER Act
Summary
The SHOWER Act would change how the federal government defines showerheads under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act. Currently, federal regulations limit showerheads to a maximum of 2.5 gallons per minute. This bill would adopt a new definition based on the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) industry standard ASME A112.18.1–2024, which would potentially allow for greater water flow in residential showerheads. The bill excludes safety showerheads from this new definition.
If enacted, the bill would require the Department of Energy to update its regulations within 180 days to align with the new showerhead definition. Supporters argue this would reduce what they view as excessive federal regulation and restore consumer choice in selecting showerheads. The Congressional Budget Office estimates implementation would cost less than $500,000.
The bill passed the House on January 13, 2026, with a vote of 226 to 197. It is now in the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources for consideration. If approved by the Senate and signed by the President, the legislation would change federal water efficiency standards for residential showerheads.
