Late on Tuesday, the New York State Assembly made history as the first state legislature to approve a statewide prohibition on new natural gas connections, as reported by numerous sources.
State Budget Proposal Mandates All-Electric Solutions for New Buildings by 2026
The substantial $229 billion state budget proposal stipulates, by 2026, nearly all new structures below seven stories must adopt all-electric solutions for cooking and heating.
Exceptions exist for manufacturers, restaurants, renovations, and hospitals. Meanwhile, taller buildings are granted an extension until 2029, as per The Washington Post.
Drafters of the legislation assert its necessity in achieving the state’s climate objectives, whereas detractors contend it will burden homeowners with increased costs, given that electricity often carries a higher price tag than gas in the state.
The legislation is expected to take effect in 2026 for the majority of new buildings under seven stories in height, with an implementation date of 2029 for larger structures.
Link: https://t.co/9ApTBj2YpN
— unusual_whales (@unusual_whales) May 3, 2023
“Albany Democrats have crafted a state budget that disregards the priorities of New York residents,” said Robert Ortt, Minority Leader in the state’s Senate Republican.
He added, “An unprecedented, unconstitutional ban on natural gas connections in new construction will escalate utility bills and inflate housing expenses.”
Republican Lawmakers Investigate Environmental Organizations’ Influence
Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul sought to clarify misconceptions ahead of Tuesday’s vote, stating, as reported by The Associated Press:
“I want to be very clear. I know people love to misinterpret this, but those with existing gas stoves can keep them. This is the eventual direction our nation must take. However, I want to ensure a smooth journey toward the transition.”
NEW: Natural gas stoves and furnaces are now "BANNED in most new construction in New York state beginning in 2026" pic.twitter.com/JybVAhIJ6z
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) May 3, 2023
Recently, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) initiated a request for information, encouraging public input regarding the detrimental effects of gas stoves, potentially laying the groundwork for future nationwide regulations.
Republican Senator Ted Cruz from Texas and Representative James Comer of Kentucky intensified their investigation of multiple environmental organizations on Monday, suspecting they may have influenced the CPSC’s position on gas stoves.
The Daily Caller News Foundation reached out to Governor Hochul’s office for comment, but no immediate response was forthcoming.
