Congressman Nick Langworthy sharply criticized Governor Kathy Hochul and Albany Democrats Thursday, championing federal legislation he says will safeguard American energy access by prohibiting state and local governments from banning certain energy sources.
During a press conference in Elmira, Langworthy, representing New York’s 23rd district, presented the Energy Choice Act. He argues this act counters what he termed the “relentless war on American energy” being waged in blue states nationwide.
“Governor Kathy Hochul and Democrats in Albany are hurting New Yorkers with their relentless war on American energy,” Langworthy said. “Her effort to ban the use of gas in buildings across the state will not only increase energy costs for families, but it will also eliminate a reliable and necessary source of energy that keeps homes heated and people safe.”
The Independent Oil and Gas Association of New York (IOGANY), representing producers and associated industries, endorsed Langworthy’s bill. The group claims current state policies intended to reduce fossil fuel use have already raised energy costs and compromised reliability.
“Everyone knows the sun does not shine and the wind does not blow all the time, so this transition is impacting energy reliability,” IOGANY stated. “We question if the current established emission goals can be reached while still providing safe, reliable, cost-effective energy.”
The New York State Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (NYS PHCC) also backed Langworthy, emphasizing concerns that restrictive state energy laws harm both energy supply and economic stability.
“This bill gives the ability to adequately power and heat our homes, businesses, and institutions that make New York the Empire State,” said Terence O’Brien, Co-Executive Director of NYS PHCC.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].