State Senate Holds Climate Action Council Hearing

On January 19, the state Senate held a hearing to examine possible legislative and budgetary actions that would be necessary to implement recommendations from the state Climate Action Council Final Scoping Plan, which includes a ban on the use of natural gas, propane and oil in new construction homes by 2025, home heating systems in existing homes beginning 2030, and home appliances beginning 2035. Governor Hochul announced support for these recommendations in her State of the State address on January 10. While NYSAR supports a transition to renewable energy, there remains serious concerns over the cost and fiscal impact on current and future homeowners to comply with such proposed mandates. Estimated up-front costs to retrofit a home to be all-electric range from $12,000 - $50,000. For more about these proposals and to sign up to receive updates, click HERE.