Governor Hochul Repeals "100-Foot Rule," Accelerating New York's Clean Energy Future
Today, Governor Kathy Hochul took decisive action for New York's climate, health, and economy by signing S.8417/A.888 into law to repeal the antiquated '100-foot rule.' The new law takes effect in 12 months and applies to residential buildings. This outdated policy forced existing gas customers to subsidize new gas hookups. Its repeal marks a critical victory for all New Yorkers, helping ensure:
- Gas ratepayers no longer bear the cost of unnecessary gas system expansion.
- Clean energy producers and consumers compete in a fair energy market.
- All New Yorkers benefit from cleaner air in a state advancing its climate goals.
“This is a pivotal step towards a cleaner, more affordable New York. The 100-foot rule was a relic, subsidizing fossil fuel expansion and obscuring the true costs of natural gas reliance. With buildings as the largest source of New York's greenhouse gas emissions, responsible for 31% of statewide emissions, ending this subsidy is essential to achieving the ambitious ‘Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act’ climate targets."
- Erin Murphy, Director & Senior Attorney, Clean Air & Energy Markets
With more than 3 million members, Environmental Defense Fund creates transformational solutions to the most serious environmental problems. To do so, EDF links science, economics, law, and innovative private-sector partnerships to turn solutions into action. edf.org
Latest press releases
-
Hidden Emissions from Wetlands, Wildfires and Permafrost Are Speeding Up the Climate Clock, Exposing a Blind Spot in Climate Policy and Reporting
January 20, 2026 -
New Discussion Paper Proposes “Debt-for-Carbon” as Next Evolution of Debt-for-Climate Swaps
January 20, 2026 -
El Departamento de Energía de los Estados Unidos cancela el financiamiento para proyectos comunitarios de energía solar en Puerto Rico
January 16, 2026 -
The U.S. Department of Energy Cancels Funding for Community Solar Energy Projects in Puerto Rico
January 16, 2026 -
Draft House Bill Would Gut Toxic Substances Control Act, Despite Overwhelming Public Support for Chemical Protections
January 15, 2026 -
Environmental Defense Fund Applauds Appointment of Chairs for City Council Land Use, Housing and Environmental Protection Committees, Urges Unified Action to Address Joint Crisis
January 15, 2026