The Department of Justice has filed lawsuits against two cities in California, accusing them of enacting ordinances prohibiting the installation of natural gas infrastructure and equipment in new buildings.
The complaint filed in the Northern District of California federal court on Monday, January 5th, alleges that the natural gas bans implemented by Morgan Hill and Petaluma have raised energy costs for consumers and weakened America’s energy dominance. These policies reflect a radical approach, attempting to ban the use of federally regulated gas stoves, furnaces, water heaters, dryers, and other equipment that American households rely on daily for cooking, heating, and maintaining household operations.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated, “These natural gas bans harm the interests of American families and are clearly illegal. The Department of Justice is working hand in hand with the Department of Energy to end radical environmental policies, restore common sense, and unleash America’s energy potential.”
Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate added, “Especially during winter, American citizens deserve access to reliable and affordable energy. Any radical local actions that undermine America’s energy dominance must be stopped.”
Morgan Hill and Petaluma are located in Santa Clara County and Sonoma County, respectively. The complaint requests the court to declare that the natural gas bans in these two cities have been preempted by federal law and to issue a permanent injunction against them. This latest action by the Department of Justice is part of its recent efforts to counter state and local government overreach.
Earlier this year, the Department of Justice also filed documents in support of legal challenges against similar natural gas bans in New York City.