U.S. Justice Department Sues California Cities Over Natural Gas Bans

U.S. Justice Department Sues California Cities Over Natural Gas Bans

U.S.: The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against the cities of Morgan Hill and Petaluma in California over local ordinances that ban natural gas infrastructure and appliances in new construction. Filed in the Northern District of California, the complaint argues that the bans increase energy costs for consumers and undermine U.S. energy dominance by restricting federally regulated appliances such as gas stoves, furnaces, water heaters, and dryers. Attorney General Pamela Bondi said the policies are illegal and harm American families, while Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate emphasized the need for reliable and affordable energy, especially during winter. The Justice Department is asking the court to rule that the ordinances are preempted by federal law and to issue a permanent injunction against their enforcement. The lawsuit follows earlier federal action supporting a challenge to a similar natural gas ban in New York City.

Source: U.S. Department of Justice