New York Assembly Bill A05526

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/25
• Refer: 2/14/25
• Refer: 1/7/26

Caption

Provides an exemption for the purposes of allowing the installation and use of fossil-fuel equipment and building systems where such are installed and used in a building or part of a building that is owned or occupied by a person who holds genuine and sincere religious beliefs and whose health and safety will be jeopardized due to the prohibition of the installation of fossil-fuel equipment and building systems because of such genuine and sincere religious beliefs.

Summary

Bill A05526 amends the energy law and the executive law to create a religious exemption to the existing ban on fossil fuel equipment and systems in New York. The bill allows for the installation and use of fossil-fuel equipment in buildings owned or occupied by individuals who hold genuine and sincere religious beliefs, particularly when their health and safety may be compromised by the prohibition of such installations. This exemption is intended to ensure that individuals with specific religious convictions are not adversely affected by the state's energy regulations.

Impact

The bill's passage would modify the current energy regulations, which restrict the use of fossil fuel equipment in various types of buildings. By introducing a religious exemption, it could lead to increased installations of fossil fuel systems in certain residential and commercial properties, potentially impacting state efforts to reduce fossil fuel dependency and greenhouse gas emissions. This change may also necessitate revisions to existing codes and enforcement practices to accommodate the new exemptions.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill A05526 appears to be mixed, with some stakeholders expressing concern over the implications of allowing fossil fuel systems under the guise of religious exemptions. Proponents argue for the protection of religious rights, while opponents worry about the potential environmental impact and the undermining of state energy goals. The lack of voting history and committee discussions makes it difficult to gauge the full extent of support or opposition.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between religious freedom and environmental responsibility. Supporters of the bill emphasize the importance of accommodating religious beliefs, while critics argue that this could set a precedent for other exemptions that may hinder progress toward renewable energy goals. The debate centers on whether the health and safety claims are valid and how they align with broader state energy policies.