by: AIA New York
Over the last few years, AIA New York and its allies have made major headway at limiting the design and construction of new gas-powered buildings. Last year, AIANY successfully advocated for the passage of NYC’s gas ban, LL 154-2021. The bill, which effectively mandates that all new buildings in the city be gas-free by the end of 2027, sets an important precedent for other major cities across the country that are looking to undertake similar actions.
Meanwhile, last year, AIANY and its allies also succeeded in introducing the All-Electric Buildings Act (A8431/S6843), which would institute a gas ban statewide. Though AIANY members have been designing gas-free buildings throughout the state for years, there was enough pushback to stop the bill from passing in 2022. Nevertheless, the bill garnered a significant amount of support, making a similar bill likely to be passed soon.
With the 2023 legislative session beginning in just a few months, the campaign to pass the All-Electric Buildings Act is restarting. Several community groups and environmental organizations have partnered with AIANY on this latest effort. Last week, AIANY and its allies held a press conference in support of the bill, calling on Governor Hochul to back it. Many members of the State Assembly and State Senate spoke in favor of a gas ban, showing that it has significant support.
During the 2023 legislative session in Albany, there will be several opportunities to pass the bill. The Governor may include it in the 2023 executive budget, which is not only a spending proposal but also a package of bills. Should that not come to fruition, the bill can be passed on its own in the state legislature before the end of the legislative session in June. AIANY will keep its members updated on the progress of the bill and opportunities to advocate for its passage.