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.
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:
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