New York Governor Hochul Proposes Delaying Climate Law Until 2030, Sparking Protests

Key Points

• Governor Hochul proposes delaying Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act provisions from 2031 to 2030
• State energy financing arm warns meeting original targets could increase costs by $2,300 annually for NYC natural gas households
• Hundreds protested at the NY State Capitol against the proposed changes
• AARP report warns thousands of households could face utility shutoffs this spring due to rising energy costs

Full Details

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed weakening the state's flagship Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act by delaying key provisions until 2030, over concerns that meeting the original targets by 2031 could significantly raise energy costs for households and businesses. A memo published last month by the state's energy financing arm warned that meeting the original targets could push up costs for natural gas households in New York City by approximately $2,300 annually. Hundreds of New Yorkers protested at the state Capitol in Albany, urging the governor not to change the climate laws. A new report from AARP warns that thousands of New York households could face utility shutoffs this spring as energy costs continue to rise and unpaid bills pile up. If the proposed changes are enacted, New York would not be legally required to act under the law until 2030.