Gas and Construction Groups File Lawsuit to Challenge New York’s Ban on Gas Stoves

Gas and construction trade groups have filed a lawsuit to block New York’s controversial state ban on gas stoves and furnaces in new buildings. The organizations argue that the law violates federal regulations on gas appliances and have filed the case against New York in federal court. The ban, which was approved by Governor Kathy Hochul, aims to prohibit the installation of fossil-fuel equipment in new buildings starting in 2026 for smaller structures and 2029 for larger buildings. Existing buildings are exempt from the law. Similar policies have been implemented in many Democrat-controlled cities and local governments, with supporters claiming that they will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve indoor air quality. However, opponents, including Republican officials, argue that the ban infringes on consumer choice and have criticized it as an overreach. The National Association of Home Builders and the National Propane Gas Association are among the plaintiffs in the lawsuit, which seeks to have the ban ruled unenforceable under federal law and blocked before it takes effect. The New York Department of State, named as a defendant in the case, has declined to comment. The state’s ban includes exemptions for emergency backup power equipment and certain commercial establishments, while New York City plans to introduce separate rules for all-electric new construction.