트럼프, 수압 제한 없애 '샤워 혁명'

[EPA 연합뉴스 자료사진]

Donald Trump, former President of the United States, has taken a decisive step to abolish the water pressure regulations for showerheads, a move originally implemented during the Obama administration for water conservation purposes. On December 9th, Trump signed an executive order entitled 'Make Showers Great Again,' as reported by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ).

This action is seen as part of Trump's broader agenda to dismantle regulatory measures imposed by previous administrations, particularly those of Barack Obama and his successor, Joe Biden, which Trump argues have placed unnecessary burdens on consumers. The showerhead water pressure regulations were initially relaxed during Trump's first term, only to be reinstated by the Biden administration.

While signing the executive order in the Oval Office, Trump remarked, "I want to have a good shower to take care of my beautiful hair. To properly wet my hair, I need to stand under the shower for at least 15 minutes." This comment highlights Trump's personal investment in the issue, as well as his belief that such regulations interfere with personal grooming and consumer satisfaction.

The scope of the executive order extends beyond showerheads, affecting kitchen sinks and dishwashers as well. Trump contends that the regulations set forth by the Obama and Biden administrations were detrimental to consumers, limiting their choices and imposing federal oversight on what should be a personal decision. In the executive order, he referred to the water pressure regulations as "government interference," asserting that "the federal government should not interfere with the choice of showerhead for Americans who pay their own water bills."

This move has sparked a debate about the balance between environmental conservation efforts and consumer rights. Proponents of the original regulations argue that they play a crucial role in conserving water, an increasingly precious resource. However, Trump's decision underscores his administration's philosophy of reducing federal regulations to enhance personal freedom and market choice.

By reversing these regulations, Trump has set the stage for a broader conversation on the role of government in dictating everyday consumer products and practices. Critics may view this as a rollback of important environmental protections, while supporters argue it is a necessary correction to overreach by previous administrations.

In essence, Trump's action reflects a broader trend in his presidency: the emphasis on deregulation and the promotion of what he sees as greater individual liberty. This latest move to abolish showerhead water pressure limits serves as a symbolic gesture of this philosophy, illustrating the ongoing tension between regulatory oversight and personal freedom in the United States.