Congressman Nick Langworthy held press conferences at new home construction sites in Erie and Cattaraugus Counties to draw attention to his proposed Energy Choice Act. The legislation aims to prevent state and local governments from enacting energy bans that would restrict families and businesses from choosing their preferred fuel sources.
Langworthy criticized Governor Kathy Hochul and state lawmakers for implementing a ban on natural gas in new construction across New York. He argued that this policy could increase energy costs, threaten power reliability during extreme weather, and limit consumer choice regarding how homes are heated and powered.
“I am proud to lead the fight to ban the bans and defend New Yorkers’ right to affordable, reliable energy,” said Congressman Langworthy. “Hochul’s radical agenda will not only drive-up costs for families already struggling, but also eliminate a safe, dependable energy source that keeps homes heated and people protected. This is becoming a dangerous trend in blue states across the country, and my Energy Choice Act will end these costly bans, safeguard consumer choice, and secure America’s energy future.”
The press events featured support from several industry groups. In Erie County, the Western New York and State Home Builders Association as well as the Buffalo Niagara Realtors Association voiced opposition to the natural gas ban. In Cattaraugus County, John Healy of the Builders Exchange of the Southern Tier and developer Nick Ferrari of Field of Dreams expressed their backing for Langworthy’s bill. These organizations emphasized concerns about potential negative effects on families and the housing market if such policies remain in place.
