S8417

The New York State Senate passed legislation eliminating the "hundred-foot rule" that requires natural gas utilities to provide free connections to new buildings, with a 34-25 vote along largely party lines. Senate Print 8417, sponsored by Sen. Liz Krueger, would shift connection costs to individual customers rather than spreading them across all utility ratepayers. Krueger argued the rule costs ratepayers at least $200 million annually and conflicts with the state's existing mandate for all-electric new buildings. "We, the people, are paying a minimum of $200 million a year for this law that isn't even justified under existing rules that the state has put into effect," Krueger said. Republicans and some Democrats opposed the measure, arguing it threatens affordability for homebuilders, particularly in upstate New York where new connections could cost $14,000-$17,000. Sen. Borrello of Western New York emphasized that natural gas remains critical for heating in his region and proved lifesaving during the December 2022 Buffalo snowstorm that killed 40 people. He also raised concerns about job losses in the gas industry and the state's insufficient electrical grid capacity. Sen. Mattera cited polling showing 71 percent of New Yorkers oppose banning natural gas. The bill passed with all 34 ayes from the Democratic majority, while all 25 nays came from Republicans.