NAHB-Supported Energy Choice Act Introduced in Congress

At NAHB’s urging, the House and Senate have introduced legislation that would prevent state or local governments from banning the use of gas in homes and buildings.

The Energy Choice Act would prohibit states or local governments from banning an energy service's connection, reconnection, modification, installation, or expansion based on the type or source of energy to be delivered.

Rep. Nick Langworthy (R-N.Y.) — along with 39 other cosponsors — introduced the bill in the House (H.R. 3699), and Sen. Jim Justice (R-W.Va.) is the lead sponsor of the Senate legislation (S. 1945). Sens. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) are cosponsors of the Senate bill.

“NAHB commends Sen. Justice and Rep. Langworthy for championing the Energy Choice Act,” said NAHB Chairman Buddy Hughes. “The U.S. Energy Information Administration recently forecasted that U.S. households using natural gas spent about 42% less on heating this winter compared to those using electricity. We urge Congress to pass this important legislation to preserve energy choice for home owners across the country, ensuring they can continue to access the most affordable energy options available.”

NAHB believes that harmful bans on gas will:

• Prevent American households from choosing the heating and cooking methods best suited to their individual needs, local climates and family budgets,
• Increase energy costs for families,
• Eliminate a reliable source of energy that keeps homes heated and people safe during harsh winters,
• Place added stress on the nation’s electrical grid, and
• Discourage energy diversification.

Heather Voorman, AVP of government affairs, explains more in the advocacy video below.

NAHB is encouraging members to attend the NAHB Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, June 11, and to urge your lawmakers to support and pass the Energy Choice Act.

To learn more about the Legislative Conference and to help prepare for your meetings on Capitol Hill, visit nahb.org/legcon or contact Karl Eckhart at NAHB.