New York is pausing the implementation of the All-Electric Buildings Act, which was supposed to start on January 1. This is what some call the “Gas Stove Ban.” It applies to newly constructed buildings under seven stories. It is part of the 2019 climate law, challenged in 2023 by trade groups, who filed a recent appeal in the case. The state says they will pause implementation until there is a decision by the courts. The trade groups say the all-electric mandate is infringing on federal law. Environmental groups are already pushing back, saying Gov. Kathy Hochul is abandoning a plan already in place.
Ken Lovett, senior communications advisor on energy and environment for Governor Hochul, sent this statement to CBS6:
“The Governor remains committed to the all-electric-buildings law and believes this action will help the state defend it, as well as reduce regulatory uncertainty for developers during this period of litigation. Governor Hochul remains resolved to providing more affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for New Yorkers.”
Katherine Nadeau, Deputy Executive Director of Policy and Programs at Environmental Advocates NY, issued the following statement:
“Delaying the All Electric Buildings Act will keep us stuck in a fossil fuel past we can’t afford. New York already has a plan ready to go to build and power our buildings more safely, cleanly, and cheaply, but Governor Hochul is choosing not to use it. We need the Governor to fight for clean energy, not drag things out even further. Every month we wait holds back New York’s climate progress and puts our future at risk.”
