Environmental Advocacy Groups Push for Passage of NY HEAT Act as Legislative Session Nears Close

Environmental advocacy groups like We ACT for Environmental Justice are ramping up their efforts to push for the passage of the NY HEAT Act as the legislative session in New York nears its close. The legislation, which aims to align state policy with existing climate goals, has become a hot topic of debate among lawmakers and advocates.

Climate Justice Campaign Manager Annie Carforo emphasized the importance of providing relief to the 1.4 million New Yorkers who struggled to pay their energy bills last winter. She criticized elected leaders for not prioritizing the needs of their constituents over the interests of fracked gas companies.

To garner support for the bill, We ACT for Environmental Justice launched a targeted digital ad campaign urging constituents to contact their state Assemblymembers. The organization claims that the NY HEAT Act could save New Yorkers up to $75 a month on their utility bills.

However, not all lawmakers are on board with the legislation. Western New York Democrats Bill Conrad and Monica Wallace have expressed reservations about the bill. Wallace, in particular, cited concerns raised by manufacturers, labor groups, and business councils as reasons for her lack of support.

Advocates of the NY HEAT Act argue that provisions like capping utility bills at 6% of a household’s monthly income and ending mandates for ratepayers to fund fossil fuel infrastructure will lead to cost savings. On the other hand, Wallace believes that the bill may end up costing her constituents more money.

The debate over the NY HEAT Act has intensified following National Grid’s request for a double-digit rate hike. While advocates see this as further evidence of the need for legislation to limit utility costs and promote sustainable energy sources, Wallace believes the rate hike is a response to potential challenges posed by laws like the NY HEAT Act.

Despite the push from advocacy groups, Wallace noted that her office has received few calls in support of the bill. She emphasized the importance of carefully considering both environmental and economic impacts when implementing legislation like the NY HEAT Act.

As the legislative session draws to a close, the fate of the NY HEAT Act remains uncertain. Both supporters and opponents continue to make their case, highlighting the complex and contentious nature of environmental policy in New York.