Could Michigan Get a Ban on Gas Stoves?
Recently, there has been a trend of certain household appliances getting banned in Michigan. In the last year, Michiganders have seen incandescent light bulbs become illegal, as well as certain refrigerators, freezers, and refrigerator/freezer combos.
Now, do we have to worry about a ban on gas stoves?
Could Bans on Household Appliances Include Gas Stoves?
In New York, Governor Hochul wants to ban stoves,
In January 2023, during Gov. Hochul's State of the State Address, she discussed a proposal to phase out fossil fuel heating equipment, like gas stoves. At the time the phase-out was set to take place in all existing residential buildings by 2030 and 2035 for commercial structures.
In addition to discontinuing the use of fossil fuels, a tally mark in the 'pro-column' for banning gas stoves is the effects it would have on the health of children.
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Studies show that "Natural gas cooking appliances release methane─primarily through small, persistent leaks─and NOx while in use, damaging the climate and degrading indoor air quality", and the chemicals in those leaks have been known to cause cancer and asthma. Research shows that children are 42% more likely to have asthma when they live in a household that cooks with a gas stove.
Could Michigan See a Ban on Gas Stoves?
Even with bans on lightbulbs and refrigerators, its unlikely Michigan will see a ban on gas stoves anytime soon.
On the Federal level, White House officials said President Biden "would not support such a gas appliance ban". And on the state-wide level for Michigan, one U.S. Congressman from western Michigan even co-sponsored a bill to prevent any federal rules affecting the production or purchase of gas stoves within the state.
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Gallery Credit: Kristen Matthews