Today, a coalition that includes fossil fuel industry interests filed a lawsuit challenging New York’s nation-leading ban on fossil fuels in new buildings, passed earlier this year. The All-Electric Building Act will save money, and slash the pollution that drives climate change, extreme weather, and poor health outcomes including childhood asthma. The law will go into effect beginning in 2026 for new buildings under seven stories, 2029 for taller new buildings.

Food & Water Watch Northeast Region Director Alex Beauchamp issued the following statement:

“New York’s landmark ban on fossil fuels in new buildings is a victory for our communities, health and climate. Efforts to reopen this done and dusted issue amount to nothing more than a last-ditch effort to keep fossil fuels relevant in a changing world. Governor Hochul must stand strong in the face of this archaic assault — our gas ban is here to stay.”

A 2022 analysis found that families in new homes in New York can expect to save an average of almost $1000 a year with all electric construction. What’s more, buildings are New York’s largest polluters, contributing 32% of statewide greenhouse gas emissions. Coupled with New York City’s gas ban passed in 2021, the statewide gas ban could prevent greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to keeping 1.3 million cars off the road between now and 2040.