Alabama 2024 Regular Session

Alabama Senate Bill SB50

Introduced
2/6/24  
Introduced
2/6/24  
Report Pass
2/22/24  
Refer
2/6/24  
Refer
2/27/24  
Report Pass
2/22/24  
Report Pass
3/6/24  
Refer
2/27/24  
Enrolled
4/4/24  
Report Pass
3/6/24  
Passed
4/12/24  
Enrolled
4/4/24  
Passed
4/12/24  

Caption

Appliances, prohibits a governmental entity from restricting acquisition of appliances based solely on the type of energy used

Impact

If enacted, SB50 would amend existing legal frameworks that govern the regulation of appliances at the local and state levels. It limits the scope of local governments to impose restrictions on appliance usage based on energy types, thus potentially affecting local policies aimed at promoting specific energy practices or technologies. However, the bill does clarify that governmental entities retain their authority in certain areas, such as ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulations regarding energy providers.

Summary

SB50 seeks to prohibit governmental entities from restricting or prohibiting the acquisition or use of appliances based solely on the type of energy they utilize. This legislation is designed to ensure that consumers and entities have the freedom to choose appliances without being limited due to their energy source. It defines 'appliances' broadly, encompassing both domestic and commercial uses, which includes devices involved in cooking, food storage, heating, cooling, washing, and drying.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB50 appears to be supportive within legislative circles, as indicated by the unanimous vote in favor of the bill, passing with 102 yeas and no nays. This emphasis on consumer choice and market freedom resonates particularly among proponents who argue that such restrictions could hinder innovation and the adoption of various energy sources in households and businesses.

Contention

While there is a notable consensus regarding the freedom to choose appliances without governmental interference, some potential contention could arise around the effectiveness of not regulating energy sources. Critics may argue that unrestricted appliance usage could lead to increased energy inefficiencies or hinder efforts to promote renewable energy sources. Thus, the discussion may shift to the balance between consumer choice and environmental responsibility, raising questions about the long-term impact of such regulations on energy consumption practices.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AL HB515

Prohibiting restrictions on household appliances by Commonwealth agencies and municipalities; and providing for civil actions authorized.

AL AB2057

Natural gas: appliances.

AL S06729

Prohibits landlords from restricting the installation of appliances or fixtures by tenants; provides that the landlord is not compelled to change utilities or alter the unit for such installation; prohibits surcharge where tenant pays utilities directly to provider; requires a tenant restore appliances or fixtures to the condition they were prior to being installed or allowing such appliances or fixtures remain in the rental unit at no cost to the landlord; defines "appliances or fixtures".

AL S1339

Prohibits adoption of State and local rules that prohibit use of fossil fuel-powered kitchen appliances.

AL A163

Prohibits adoption of State and local rules that prohibit use of fossil fuel-powered kitchen appliances.

AL SB1010

An act to add Chapter 13.2 (commencing with Section 42670) to Part 3 of Division 30 of the Public Resources Code, relating to solid waste. amend Sections 25211.3 and 25211.4 of, to add Sections 25211.6 and 25211.7 to, and to repeal and add Section 25213 of, the Health and Safety Code, relating to hazardous waste.

AL S1929

"Affordable Home Energy Protection Act"; prohibits adoption of State or local rules that restrict the use of certain fossil-fuel powered appliances or heating systems.

AL A4614

"Affordable Home Energy Protection Act"; prohibits adoption of State or local rules that restrict the use of certain fossil-fuel powered appliances or heating systems.

AL SB0084

Construction: housing; ordinance prohibiting the use of energy-efficient appliances in new or existing residential buildings; prohibit local units of government from enacting. Amends sec. 13a of 1972 PA 230 (MCL 125.1513a).

AL HB673

Consumer Goods - Restrictions Based on Energy Source - Prohibition (Energy Equality Act of 2026)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.