On Wednesday, November 20, the House Energy & Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Energy advanced four NEFI-backed energy choice bills, including the Energy Choice Act (H.R. 3699), Don’t Mess with My Home Appliances Act (H.R. 4626), Homeowner Energy Freedom Act (H.R. 4758), and Reliable Federal Infrastructure Act (H.R. 4690). Together, these bills would create comprehensive federal protections for consumer access to heating fuels, appliances, and equipment.

The bill now moves to the full committee for markup, which may occur as soon as the week of December 1. It could, potentially, receive floor consideration in the coming months. As of last Thursday, the Energy Choice Act had bipartisan support from 126 co-sponsors, compared to only 25 last session.

In his remarks introducing the bills, Congressman Nick Langworthy (R-NY-23) addressed fuel bans in New York, Brookline, Massachusetts, and other regions, noting that “energy diversity saves lives.” He urged his colleagues to vote in favor, noting that the motions would protect affordability, reliability, and consumer choice.

NEFI met with House Speaker Mike Johnson’s staff last month and was assured the Speaker supports this legislation and bringing it to the floor. 

“These four bills collectively safeguard consumer choice, preserve market competition, and promote affordable, reliable, and diverse energy options for American families. NEFI and its coalition allies are exploring pathways to enactment in both chambers," said NEFI President & CEO Jim Collura. “The Senate remains a challenge, because 60 votes are required for passage. However, if the government shutdown deal showed us anything, it is that there are moderate, pragmatic Senate Democrats who are willing to break with their party to support sensible legislation, which could create opportunities for energy choice moving forward.”

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Members of Congress need to hear from constituents about how these policies impact local families and businesses! Take a moment to send your own letter to Congress!

This success is only possible because of your generous support. Our work on this issue is made possible by the generous support of our members and contributions to our advocacy fund. If you're not already a member, please join today. Please also consider contributing – or increasing your contribution – to the NEFI Advocacy Fund.

For more information about this legislation or NEFI's advocacy efforts, contact NEFI Manager of Government Affairs Liam Dotson at liam.dotson@nefi.com.