(The Center Square) – A day after Washington Gov. Jay Inslee signed into law one of the most controversial bills of the legislative session, reactions are coming in from opponents, including the Building Industry Association of Washington.
Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1589, dubbed the “natural gas ban bill” by detractors, is meant to hasten Puget Sound Energy’s transition away from natural gas to renewable energy sources.
Supporters argue the new law should have no immediate impact on rates – the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission would have to approve any rate hikes – and is necessary to meet climate commitment goals as the utility moves toward decarbonization.
But opponents say customers will see utility bills increase, and transitioning away from natural gas-powered water heaters, stove tops, and fireplaces could cost homeowners tens of thousands of dollars.
Jan Himebaugh, BIAW’s managing director of external affairs, spoke with The Center
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