Freshman U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, D-Skamania, has introduced legislation that would require manufacturers of home appliances to label their products with the anticipated lifespan of the item — with and without recommended maintenance — and the cost of the maintenance.
According to the Third District congresswomen, the Performance Life Disclosure Act would encourage manufacturers to create more durable and repairable products, and help consumers make better-informed decisions when purchasing products.
“Home appliances are major purchases — but when families buy a brand-new washer, dryer or fridge just to have it conk out after a few years, it’s immensely frustrating and it drains wealth from the middle class,” Gluesenkamp Perez said. “With appliances breaking down more often, I’m introducing the Performance Life Disclosure Act to protect our pocketbooks and provide more transparency for hardworking families. Many manufacturers aren’t making home appliances like they used to — and this legislation would help Americans identify which products and manufacturers are worth investing our hard-earned dollars in.”
If passed, the National Institute of Standards and Technology would determine which products must comply. Manufacturers would have five years to comply with the legislation.
