Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Republican leaders in Western New York held a press conference outside the Buffalo Erie County Public Library on Wednesday to oppose New York Gov. Kathy Hochul's energy plan.
State Assemblyman Phil Palmesano, along with other leaders in Western New York, feel the new energy plan proposed by Albany would lead to higher prices, less reliability, and fewer choices for families and small businesses.
"Albany’s plan is simple: You pay more and get less," said Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt. "Western New Yorkers are already squeezed by higher prices for everything from groceries to gas. Now Democrats want to pile on by raising utility bills, eliminating energy choices, and jeopardizing grid reliability. This plan hurts working families and kills jobs, and we will fight it every step of the way."
New York State has implemented a ban on natural gas in houses and businesses starting this coming January. State Assemblyman Paul Bologna feels the plan will not strengthen New York's economy.
"It is about an ideology at any cost," Bologna said at Wednesday's public hearing. "There has to be a balance here between responsibly shepherding our economy, and responsibly helping our environment. But climate change can't be fought on the backs of New Yorkers."
Hundreds of people gathered inside the auditorium at the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library on Wednesday to voice their opinion on the state's energy plan. Many Republican leaders feel the one-size fits all approach is something the state would not be able to handle.
"This is a pivotal moment in our state’s energy future," said State Sen. Patrick Gallivan. "As utility rates continue to rise, the governor and the legislature must work together on a plan that is achievable, sustainable and most importantly affordable for residents and businesses."