East SBV Times

Senator Suzette Martinez Valladares, representing Santa Clarita, has joined forces with Legislative Republicans to address the U.S. Department of Energy regarding efforts to ban natural gas. The senator sent a letter to Energy Secretary Chris Wright urging federal intervention against state and local regulations that could prohibit Californians from using gas appliances in their homes.

“Californians need leadership that works to make their lives easier and more affordable,” stated Sen. Valladares. She criticized the movement towards banning gas stoves, describing them as "a cheap, clean alternative to electricity," and urged federal action to prevent these bans from escalating.

There has been a push from Democrat-led agencies and local governments for all-electric mandates, despite existing federal laws that preempt such restrictions. Over 60 cities and counties in California have already enacted bans on natural gas appliances or zero-emission requirements. Despite a recent federal court decision overturning Berkeley’s natural gas ban, many similar policies persist, causing uncertainty and increasing costs for consumers, businesses, and manufacturers.

The impact of these mandates is particularly significant in California due to electricity rates being 92% higher than the national average. Banning gas appliances could increase reliance on an already strained electrical grid, potentially raising costs further and decreasing reliability.

This recent letter continues Senator Valladares’ advocacy for consumer choice and affordability. She recently highlighted these issues following a January report by the state’s nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office on high utility rates.

Signed by Valladares along with other legislative Republicans, the letter calls upon the Department of Energy to assess these policies critically and act to overturn bans on gas appliances wherever feasible.

The complete letter is available for review.