Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - New York State has hit the pause button on the All-Electric Buildings Law.
Originally set to go into effect January 1st, the plan calls for banning gas hookups in new buildings under 7 stories.
Construction trade groups had sued to block the law, saying it violates the federal government's rules on how gas appliances are regulated.
Attorneys for the state Wednesday agreed in a filing in US District Court
to delay the policy until the Second Circuit US Court of Appeals makes a ruling on the matter.
Democrats in the State Assembly, such as Bill Conrad, have mentioned concerns about reliability and affordability. Democrats like Conrad were joined by Republican lawmakers in Albany in calling for the plan to be rolled back.
State Senator Patrick Gallivan (R-C, Elma) reacted Wednesday night, saying he's "pleased" with the state's decision, but more needs to be done.
"While consumers and businesses can breathe a sigh of relief, for now, a temporary delay is not enough," Gallivan said.
Advocates supporting the policy were quick to criticize Governor Hochul. A statement from Renewable Heat Now accused the governor of "siding with fossil fuel interests" and said New Yorkers' energy bills will only climb.