Michigan House Bill HR0026

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/23
• Refer: 2/1/23

Caption

A resolution to oppose any attempt by the President of the United States or the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission to ban the use of gas stoves.

Impact

The resolution argues that over 40 million households in the U.S. use gas stoves, and a nationwide ban would severely limit consumer choices regarding kitchen appliances. It highlights the argument that the prohibition of gas stoves would disproportionately affect the hospitality industry, risking the livelihoods of many small businesses, particularly restaurants that rely on natural gas for cooking. Nearly 76% of restaurants depend on this energy source, which many chefs prefer due to its efficiency and the control it allows over cooking temperatures.

Summary

House Resolution 0026 is a legislative measure proposed by Representatives Wendzel, St. Germaine, Bezotte, Wozniak, De Boer, DeSana, Bollin, Friske, and Rigas. The resolution expresses opposition to any attempts by the President of the United States or the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission to ban the use of gas stoves. This resolution has been prompted by concerns that such a ban would represent an overreach by the federal government and threaten individual rights and state sovereignty.

Conclusion

In conclusion, House Resolution 0026 illustrates the tensions between federal regulatory power and state rights, particularly in the context of consumer choice and business operations. By opposing potential federal bans on gas stoves, the resolution seeks to protect both individual rights and the economic well-being of the hospitality industry, while also inviting debate about the environmental implications of energy choices in cooking.

Contention

An important aspect of HR0026 is its critique of the environmental rationale behind banning gas stoves. The resolution asserts that electric stoves do not necessarily improve environmental outcomes, as the electricity they use often comes from non-renewable sources such as coal and natural gas. The legislative measure emphasizes that an outright ban could require substantial changes to existing restaurant infrastructure, imposing significant financial burdens on businesses that are still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.