I am writing to express my deep disappointment and frustration regarding the recent decision not to include the NY Heat Act in the state budget. As a constituent who is deeply concerned about climate change and its impact on our community and the planet, I find it unacceptable that such a critical piece of legislation was not given the attention it deserves. Reports indicate that the Assembly refused to negotiate this in the budget and never even put a counteroffer on the table. (source NY Focus 4/19/24)
The NY Heat Act ( HR 598), was a landmark proposal that would have accelerated NY away from gas and towards renewable energy sources. This legislation is essential for meeting our climate targets and creating a sustainable future for generations to come. It is beyond disheartening to see that despite widespread support from environmental advocates and Governor Kathy Hochul, the Assembly chose not to prioritize this bill during budget negotiations - for what appears to be pressure for gas interests (source here).
I am particularly disappointed in Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie's apparent reluctance to consider the NY Heat Act. Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time our officials have been elected to take decisive action to address it. By neglecting to include this critical legislation in the budget, Speaker Heastie has demonstrated a lack of foresight and leadership on climate issues. Shameful, since so many constituents have been calling weekly over the last few months urging the Assembly to take action and prioritize NY HEAT.
I implore you to advocate for the passage of NY HEAT during this legislative session and to convey my outrage to Speaker Heastie. I look forward to your response and to seeing meaningful progress on climate policy in our state.
