I urge you and your Committee colleagues to oppose HB1783 (O'Quinn), which would bar local governments from pursuing policies limiting reliance on natural gas. This bill is part of a concerted national strategy of the American Gas Association (AGA), which understands that localities will choose to adopt more clean energy options in the future.
Burning fossil fuels in homes and businesses results in more than 13% of all U.S. emissions and poses a serious threat to health and climate action. Recent studies show high asthma rates in children directly attributable to gas stoves. Accordingly, many communities want new buildings to rely on electricity, which saves money and also reduces carbon pollution. Inflation Reduction Act incentives are also making the cleaner choice the more affordable choice.
Do not be fooled by the AGA's false narratives of 'choice.' If Virginia's localities decide that natural gas isn't right for their communities that should be their choice, not the AGA's.
Sincerely,