Congressman Nick Langworthy made stops in Owego and Elmira this week to rally support for his Energy Choice Act, calling out what he described as Governor Kathy Hochul’s “radical energy ban” on natural gas in new construction projects.
Speaking alongside local lawmakers and representatives from the Southern Tier Homebuilders Association, Langworthy warned that Albany’s push to eliminate gas hookups would increase costs for families, reduce reliability in extreme weather, and limit energy options for New Yorkers.
“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,” Langworthy said. “This is becoming a dangerous trend in blue states across the country.”
The Energy Choice Act, introduced by Langworthy, aims to prevent states and local governments from blocking or limiting utility connections based on the type of fuel used. The bill is gaining momentum among Republicans in Congress as debates continue over clean energy policy and consumer choice.
Langworthy’s visits in the Southern Tier were part of a broader effort to highlight local opposition to the state’s decarbonization policies, particularly in regions where natural gas remains a key heating source.
The congressman streamed both events online and was joined by municipal officials, state lawmakers, and construction industry leaders who echoed concerns about rising costs and reduced options for builders and homeowners.
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