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Adirondack Voters for Change Hosts Open House to Promote NY HEAT Act

In a climate agenda increasingly central to state and national discussions, New Yorkers from all regions—north, south, and everywhere in between—share a singular vision for a sustainable future: a world where families reside in safe, comfortable homes without the burden of exorbitant energy expenses. This shared conviction is the driving force behind an upcoming event hosted by Adirondack Voters for Change.

On Thursday, December 12, from 4 to 6 p.m., the organization will hold an Open House at their Community Hub located at 39 Broadway in Saranac Lake. The event aims to inform the public about the New York Home Energy Affordable Transition Act (NY HEAT Act), a pivotal piece of legislation currently under consideration by state lawmakers. Participants are encouraged to learn more about how the NY HEAT Act can provide clean heating solutions while simultaneously lowering energy bills for residents across New York State.

The state’s proactive stance on climate change was solidified in 2019 when it enacted one of the nation’s most progressive climate laws aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and boosting renewable energy production. Following the finalization of New York’s Climate Action Plan in 2022, there is an urgent need for specific laws and policies to operationalize these ambitious climate goals. As communities like New York’s North Country witness the escalating consequences of global warming, decisive action is more critical than ever.

One significant advantage of the NY HEAT Act is its potential to modernize New York’s outdated pro-gas statutes. This legislation would unlock access to billions of dollars earmarked for clean energy improvements, allowing utility companies to redirect funds traditionally allocated for expensive fossil fuel infrastructure—such as gas pipelines—toward subsidizing the adoption of advanced, energy-efficient electric systems in households.

Should the NY HEAT Act pass, New Yorkers can expect a multifaceted array of benefits, including reduced energy costs, improved air quality, and a meaningful contribution toward combating climate change. Advocates emphasize that this legislation is not simply an environmental imperative; it represents an economic opportunity that could yield long-term savings for families, enhance public health, and pave the way for a sustainable future.

Kary Johnson, President of Adirondack Voters for Change, articulates the stakes succinctly: “With the passage of the NY HEAT Act, we can finally make the kind of progress New Yorkers deserve. By lowering energy bills, upgrading homes to energy-efficient appliances, safeguarding our health from harmful pollutants, and protecting our planet for the next generation, we can create a future that reflects our values.”

The upcoming Open House represents not only an opportunity for education and advocacy but also an essential call to action for New Yorkers committed to a healthier and more sustainable future.