The Assembly has passed legislation aimed at eliminating the “100-foot rule,” which mandates that current utility ratepayers subsidize the connection costs for new gas system customers. According to Speaker Heastie, discussions from opposing members were “misleading and riddled with fearmongering.” Presently, the law requires ratepayers to bear all expenses associated with new gas connections.
Speaker Heastie stated, “This legislation will keep families from having to pay their hard earned money to subsidize the cost of new gas hookups.” He highlighted that annually, New Yorkers spend $200 million on connecting new homes to the gas network. The bill does not remove the option for residents to connect to gas or compel anyone to cease using it in their homes.
Heastie emphasized that the measure focuses on reducing financial burdens for New Yorkers and removing obstacles to sustainable energy alternatives.
