On Saturday, Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation ending the “100-foot rule,” a 40-year-old policy that required existing utility ratepayers to help cover part of the cost for new natural gas hookups.
Under the previous rule, all utility customers contributed to the first 100 feet of gas lines for new homes. The new law shifts the full cost of materials and installation to homeowners applying for new gas service. The law applies only to residential buildings, takes effect in 12 months, and does not prevent new gas hookups, as utilities are still legally required to provide service.
Governor Hochul said the change will help make utility costs fairer and support affordability for New Yorkers. With the law’s passage, New York joins California, Massachusetts, Colorado, Maryland, and Oregon in eliminating similar ratepayer subsidies.
