Suffolk Reporter

Senator Mario Mattera and his colleagues in the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee, along with various stakeholders, have expressed opposition to the NY HEAT Act. Mattera, as the ranking member, described the act as a "radical energy policy" that could ban natural gas usage in homes and businesses. He argued it could lead to homeowners incurring expensive retrofitting costs, eliminate consumer choice, drive up utility costs, and increase housing costs.

Mattera commented, "The NY HEAT Act is nothing short of reckless. It strips away the right of New Yorkers to choose how to heat their homes and will force working families and businesses to spend thousands they do not have. And it will cost many hardworking men and women their careers. As the Ranking Republican Member of the Energy Committee, I have heard directly from homeowners, workers, and small businesses who are deeply concerned that this mandate would crush them. We need an energy policy that is practical, affordable, and respects the needs of real people—not one driven by political agendas. The HEAT Act must be removed from the final budget."

Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt criticized the act, remarking, "The HEAT Act is a direct attack on affordable energy and consumer choice. Albany Democrats believe they have the right to tell New Yorkers how to heat your home. The Senate Republican conference knows that one-size-fits-all mandates just don’t work."

Senator Mark Walczyk also opposed the act, calling it a "misguided initiative." He claimed it would strip consumer choice and financially burden families. He emphasized the need for a policy prioritizing sustainability and affordability.

Daniel Ortega of New Yorkers for Affordable Energy highlighted potential cost increases, saying, "The facts demonstrate, and the Senate sponsor has admitted that 75 percent of New Yorkers will see increases in their energy bill as a result of the NY Heat Act." Francis Palasieski, representing the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association, warned of the impact on small businesses and customers facing rising costs.

Thomas J. Murphy from the Power and Construction Group expressed concerns about job losses, and Senator Alexis Weik argued the act was not effective.

Senator Dean Murray connected past disruptions like Superstorm Sandy with the risks of relying on a single energy source. Senator Anthony Palumbo labeled the act as harmful to Long Island's families.

Senators such as Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick and Jack M. Martins emphasized the potential for increased energy bills and loss of vital energy options in weather-prone regions. Criticisms continued from other senators, denouncing the act as unrealistic and burdensome to New Yorkers. They called for policies that provide diverse and reliable energy options without escalating costs.