Berkeley reverses its ban on natural gas in new homes after a legal setback

Berkeley, California, has agreed to repeal its pioneering ban on natural gas hookups in new homes, a move that casts doubt on similar bans across the country.

Brad Plumer reports for The New York Times.

In short:

Berkeley's decision came after a legal challenge by the California Restaurant Association and a ruling by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
The repeal raises questions about the future of over 140 similar ordinances nationwide, aimed at combating climate change.
Other cities may still pursue climate goals through building efficiency standards and alternative strategies to natural gas.

Key quote:

“To comply with the Ninth Circuit’s ruling, we have ceased enforcement of the gas ban. Berkeley will continue to be a leader on climate action.”

— Farimah Brown, city attorney for Berkeley

Why this matters:

Despite this setback, options remain for local governments to encourage building electrification through building codes, air emissions standards, and regulation of natural gas distribution, provided these measures align with EPCA stipulations and other federal laws.

In 2021, EHN’s Kristina Marusic presented evidence that natural gas production can be linked to lower birth weights in a national study.

www.nytimes.com

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