A bill in Congress that seeks to overturn New York’s upcoming ban on natural gas in new buildings cleared a key committee in the U.S. House of Representatives. The Energy Choice Act, sponsored by Republican Rep. Nick Langworthy, passed the House Energy and Commerce Committee 24-21 and is now set for consideration by the full House. The legislation would bar states and local governments from prohibiting certain energy sources, including natural gas and propane, in new construction.
The law responds to New York’s All-Electric Buildings Act, approved in the 2023 state budget. Under the law, new buildings under seven stories would be prohibited from connecting to gas starting Jan. 1, 2026, with taller structures following in 2029. Supporters, including Governor Kathy Hochul, say the mandate aligns with clean energy goals and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Implementation has been delayed pending a ruling from the Second Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. Gas and construction groups, including the National Association of Home Builders, argue the law conflicts with federal regulations on gas appliances and have filed a lawsuit to block it.
Builders warn the mandate is slowing construction amid a worsening housing shortage. John Graziose, vice president of Gerber Homes, said it was “ridiculous” to move forward with restrictions when gas infrastructure already exists. Utility officials also cautioned that meeting future demand would require billions in electric-grid upgrades.
Langworthy emphasized that the bill would “protect New Yorkers’ rights to affordable energy for their homes,” highlighting ongoing tensions between energy policy, infrastructure, and housing development.
