Subcommittee Chairman Burlison Criticizes State and Local Natural Gas Bans, Citing Increased Energy Costs and Reduced Consumer Choice
Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Affairs Chairman Eric Burlison (R-Mo.) delivered opening remarks at a hearing titled “No Flame, More Pain: How State and Local Bans on Natural Gas Increase Costs.” Chairman Burlison argued that state and local bans on natural gas, often championed by Congressional Democrats and pursued by "blue states and localities," are driving up energy costs for American households. He highlighted that while electricity prices have "skyrocketed" since 2020, natural gas has remained an affordable and reliable energy source. Burlison contended that these bans not only increase energy prices in the enacting states but also elevate demand on neighboring electricity grids, leading to higher prices in other states. He also stated that such bans limit appliance choice, make housing construction more expensive, and disproportionately affect struggling families, particularly poor families. 
