As part of her administration’s climate plan, Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul of New York unveiled her budget for the fiscal year 2025, which includes measures to further reduce the state’s dependency on natural gas.
The NY HEAT Act, also known as the Affordable Gas Transition Act, “supports responsible, equitable, and effective gas system transition planning,” and the governor’s office has included measures from this legislation directly into the proposed budget. Although Hochul’s office claimed that the plan wouldn’t compel any citizens to switch from gas to electricity, the bill would give state officials the authority to subtly encourage this switch.
A Hochul representative told News, “The Affordable Gas Transition Act would not force any existing customers to get rid of their gas service.” “Governor Hochul continues to prioritize the health and safety of New Yorkers by reducing harmful emissions and ensuring all New Yorkers have continued access to affordable and reliable utility service.”
However, Hochul’s budget would force utilities to offer incentives to customers who switch to green alternatives, forcing them to stop using gas service, if approved by the state assembly.
