THE New York became the first US State to prohibit by law the use of natural gas for heating and cooking in some new construction to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, despite pushback from Republicans and the fossil fuel lobby who see the change as abusive and costly.

The state House and Senate late Tuesday night approved the proposal, which is included in New York’s $229 billion budget. Gov. Kathy Hokul and lawmakers had agreed on the broad outlines of the budget last week.

“Changing the way we produce and use energy to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels will help ensure a healthier environment for us and our children”House Speaker Carl Histie said in a statement.

Dozens of cities across the US have adopted or are considering measures to even outright ban natural gas in new construction, responding to public health and climate concerns. But they are facing stiff resistance from restaurants, home appliance companies and the gas industry lobby. “Unconstitutional first-in-the-nation ban on natural gas installations will skyrocket utility bills and drive up housing costs” commented Republican Senator Robert Ort.

As long as the new law is ratified and not lost in the courts, from 2026 onwards the newly built “small” buildings (office and apartment buildings up to seven floors) there will only be an electrical installation. Three years later, the measure will be extended to include larger buildings.

Hospitals, infrastructure and catering facilities are exempt from the measure. Buildings, regardless of use, will also be excluded if the local electricity grid cannot meet their needs. Existing buildings and appliances still in use today are not affected.