2 versions

SubstantiveWhat changed in REPORTED IN HOUSEcompared with INTRODUCED IN HOUSE (Jun 4, 2025)

A minor but substantive change. v2 removes the explicit definition of "energy" that was present in Section 2(b) of v1, which listed specific energy types like natural gas, hydrogen, and electricity. This deletion means the scope of "energy" protected by the Act is no longer explicitly enumerated, potentially broadening or leaving ambiguous the types of energy covered by the prohibition on state and local regulation.

H.R. 3699119th CongressIntroduced Jun 4, 2025

Energy Choice Act

Reported To HouseEnergyMajor

View bill text

Sponsor: Rep. Langworthy, Nicholas A. [R-NY-23]
Committees: Energy and Commerce Committee (primary)
Last action: Feb 4, 2026

Bottom line

The bill aims to preempt state and local efforts to transition away from fossil fuels by mandating continued access to all energy types for end-users.

What it actually does

This bill, titled the "Energy Choice Act," prohibits state and local governments from enacting or enforcing any law, regulation, or policy that restricts or bans the use, connection, or expansion of energy services based on the type or source of energy. This effectively prevents local bans on natural gas hookups or other fossil fuel infrastructure, ensuring consumers retain access to various energy options.

Proponents argue

Proponents argue that the bill protects consumer choice and ensures access to affordable, reliable energy sources, such as natural gas, which are vital for heating, cooking, and industrial processes. They contend that local bans on specific energy types limit consumer options, increase costs, and undermine energy security by restricting infrastructure development and market competition.

Opponents contend

Opponents argue that the bill undermines local control and environmental initiatives by stripping state and local governments of their authority to regulate energy infrastructure for public health, safety, and climate goals. They contend that such preemption hinders efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources, locking communities into fossil fuel dependence.

The bill is very short and clear, making it easy for any informed reader to understand its core purpose quickly.

Section 2. LIMITATIONS ON REGULATION OF ENERGY CHOICE.

Prohibition on State and Local Energy Source Bans

prominently featuredstraightforward

This section explicitly forbids any state or local government, or their agencies, from creating or enforcing rules (laws, regulations, building codes, etc.) that would stop or limit the ability to connect, modify, install, transport, distribute, or expand any energy service. This prohibition applies if the restriction is based on the type or source of energy (e.g., natural gas, electricity, oil) that is sold across state lines and delivered to an end-user.

GroupImpactMechanismScale

GroupState and Local GovernmentsImpactLoss of regulatory authorityMechanismFederal preemption of local energy policy decisions, specifically regarding bans or limitations on energy types/sources.ScaleBroad, impacting all state and local jurisdictions that might consider or have enacted such bans.

GroupEnergy ConsumersImpactPreservation of energy choiceMechanismEnsures continued access to various energy sources, including fossil fuels, for residential, commercial, and industrial uses.ScaleWidespread, affecting consumers in areas where local energy bans might otherwise be implemented.

GroupFossil Fuel Industry (e.g., natural gas utilities, distributors)ImpactProtection of market access and expansionMechanismPrevents local policies that would restrict the growth or maintenance of their infrastructure and customer base.ScaleSignificant, safeguarding future investments and operations.

GroupEnvironmental Advocates and Climate-Focused CommunitiesImpactHindrance to climate action and decarbonization effortsMechanismRemoves a key tool for local governments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning away from fossil fuels.ScaleSignificant, potentially slowing down local climate initiatives.

Supporters argue

Supporters argue this provision is essential to protect consumer freedom to choose energy sources, prevent arbitrary bans that could increase energy costs, and ensure a diverse and reliable energy supply. They contend that local bans on specific energy types, such as natural gas, restrict economic growth and disproportionately affect lower-income households by limiting access to affordable energy.

Critics contend

Opponents contend this provision represents federal overreach, stripping local governments of their ability to address climate change and public health concerns through energy policy. They argue that allowing local communities to set their own energy standards is crucial for achieving decarbonization goals and promoting cleaner, healthier environments.

Tradeoffs

The provision balances the principle of consumer energy choice and industry market access against the autonomy of state and local governments to regulate energy infrastructure for environmental and public health objectives. It creates a tension between federal preemption and local self-governance in energy policy.

About this analysis. AI-Generated from the official bill text and available committee reports. Gaps in available data are noted explicitly. Verify important details with the official Congress.gov record.