Urges federal government to refrain from implementing any ban on gas powered appliances in residential or commercial buildings.
The resolution articulated through ACR132 serves to communicate the New Jersey Legislature's stance on energy policy at the federal level, advocating for the continued use of natural gas appliances and against any regulatory restrictions. The resolution notes that approximately 73 percent of New Jersey households currently utilize natural gas for heating, making it a pivotal energy source for many residents. By urging the federal government not to impose bans, the resolution seeks to safeguard jobs within the natural gas industry, which contribute significantly to the local economy and employment, thereby influencing regional energy policies and industry stability.
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 132 (ACR132) urges the federal government to refrain from implementing any ban on gas-powered appliances in both residential and commercial buildings. The resolution emphasizes the significance of natural gas in New Jersey's energy landscape and its role as a crucial component of the residential and commercial energy supply. Natural gas appliances include a variety of household and commercial items such as cooktops, ovens, furnaces, and hot water heaters, which are widely used in New Jersey homes. ACR132 highlights that, as of the latest data, a significant percentage of households in New Jersey rely on natural gas for heating and cooking, which underlines the reliance on this energy source across the state.
ACR132 focuses on the broader implications of potential federal restrictions, which proponents argue could worsen the energy situation for numerous households that depend on gas-powered appliances. The resolution presents natural gas as a cleaner and more efficient alternative to other fossil fuels, positing that its use aligns with goals for improved environmental sustainability and energy independence. However, there may be opposing views regarding the environmental impact of natural gas versus other renewable energy sources, as some advocates for renewable energy argue that promoting natural gas appliances could delay the transition to cleaner energy alternatives.