New Yorkers Rally in Capitol to Urge Assembly Members to Get to Yes NY HEAT Act

Advocates will urge lawmakers to pass critical legislation to address energy affordability crisis, end fossil fuel subsidies before the end of the legislative session

ALBANY, NY (06/04/2025) (readMedia)-- On June 5, hundreds of New Yorkers will head to Albany from across the state to demand their elected officials take action this year on the NY Home Energy Affordable Transition Act (NY HEAT) Act, legislation to address New York's worsening energy affordability crisis. Albany lawmakers promised to prioritize energy affordability and save families money, but their budget failed to include any provisions of the NY HEAT Act. The NY HEAT Act passed the Senate twice - and now the Assembly can finish the job and finally deliver relief for New Yorkers who need it.

Since 2022, every major New York gas utility has raised costs for consumers, causing more than 1.2 million families to fall behind on their energy bills. Meanwhile, critical federal energy affordability programs are under threat from the Trump Administration, making state action even more essential. The NY HEAT Act will address a major cause of ongoing gas rate hikes: maintaining and expanding fracked gas pipelines. The legislation would save New Yorkers hundreds of millions of dollars each year.

This year, the Renewable Heat Now campaign has increased support for the bill among elected officials and thousands of New Yorkers, with 242 climate, consumer advocacy, environmental, and health organizations calling for its passage. The rally is part of advocates' statewide campaign to ensure lawmakers pass the popular NY HEAT Act before the end of the legislative session, with more than 20 events across the state.

WHEN: June 5th at 12:00pm

WHAT: Press conference on the third floor of the State Capitol, Assembly Staircase (adjacent to the Assembly Chamber), in support of NY HEAT Act.

WHO: Organized by Renewable Heat Now campaign and movement allies.

WHERE: New York State Capitol Building, Albany, NY 12224