H.R. 8515: Consumer Price Information Act of 2026

The proposed bill, known as the Consumer Price Information Act of 2026, aims to enhance transparency regarding how major government regulations (referred to as "major rules") can affect consumer prices for essential goods and services. Here are the main components:

Key Findings

The bill starts with several findings that underscore its purpose:

• Major rules can influence the prices of essential goods and services.
• Clear communication about these impacts can help the public understand and support informed policymaking.
• Providing consistent consumer price information can promote transparency and rebuild trust in government actions.

Consumer Price Information Statement Requirement

The bill stipulates that whenever a government agency issues a major rule, it must also publish a Consumer Price Information Statement that outlines the potential impact of that rule on consumer prices. This statement must include:

• A description of how the rule could affect prices in the following areas:
  • Energy (electricity, gasoline, natural gas)
  • Food and groceries
  • Housing and utilities
  • Transportation
  • Health care and insurance
• Identification of groups that may be particularly sensitive to price changes, such as:
  • Low-income households
  • Seniors
  • Rural communities
• A description of any regional differences in the impact of the rule, if applicable.
• A summary of key assumptions and methodologies used to create the statement.

Publication and Availability

The Consumer Price Information Statement must be:

• Published in the Federal Register along with the major rule it accompanies.
• Made available on the website of the issuing agency.

Definitions

The bill clarifies terms used within it, including:

• Agency: Defined according to existing federal law.
• Major rule: Also defined according to existing federal law.

Funding and Implementation

The legislation specifies that it will not require new funding appropriations; agencies will need to implement it using their existing budgets. The new requirements will take effect 60 days after the bill is officially enacted.

Relevant Companies

None found.