Latest Action · Feb 4, 2026
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 412.
Bill Progress
Bill Blocks Local Energy Bans Nationwide
Why it matters
Cities cracking down on gas hookups could be forced to reverse course.
The big picture: HR3699, the 'Energy Choice Act,' would prevent local and state governments from passing rules that ban or restrict energy services based on what kind of energy you want to use. That means cities couldn't block new gas lines or force homes and businesses to only use electricity in the future.
Zoom in: The idea is to keep the door open for gas, oil, renewables, or any energy source — even as some cities have tried to cut out fossil fuels in buildings to fight climate change. Supporters argue this protects personal and business choice, while critics say it undermines local climate action and locks in polluting fuels.
Between the lines: This isn't just about kitchen stoves or heating. The bill could also affect local plans to modernize energy infrastructure, limit pollution, or move more buildings toward clean energy. It draws strong support from builders, the fossil fuel industry, and some consumer groups — but environmental advocates are sounding alarms.
What This Bill Does
Bans local energy source restrictions
Cities and states can't stop people or businesses from using energy based on what type (like gas, oil, or electric) they choose.
Applies to new and existing connections
The rule covers things like hooking up, installing, or expanding energy services—not just building new ones.
Covers all types of energy
The ban applies equally to natural gas, electricity, oil, propane, renewable sources, and future technologies.
Limits on local government authority
Strips cities and states of the power to favor one energy type over others for environmental or policy reasons.
Broad application
Protects homes, businesses, and industrial sites—anywhere energy is delivered.
Who Benefits
Homebuilders and developers
They can continue offering homes with natural gas or other fuel options without being blocked by new local bans.
Fossil fuel industries
Keeps markets open for gas utilities and oil companies in places trying to phase out those fuels.
Consumers and businesses
Gives people more flexibility in choosing gas, electric, oil, or renewables for heating, cooking, and powering buildings.
Energy infrastructure companies
Can invest and expand without worrying about sudden changes to local energy rules.
Who's Affected
Cities with local climate policies
Lose the power to restrict fossil fuel use in buildings, potentially undermining clean energy targets.
Environmental groups
See a major roadblock to local efforts to curb carbon emissions from buildings.
Construction industry workers
May see changes in the types of projects and skills in demand, depending on local energy preferences.
Utility companies
Electric utilities may lose some edge in places trying to require all-electric buildings.
Cosponsors (157)
Michael Baumgartner
Republican · WA
Jack Bergman
Republican · MI
Mike Bost
Republican · IL
Robert Bresnahan
Republican · PA
Ken Calvert
Republican · CA
Mike Carey
Republican · OH
Jeff Crank
Republican · CO
Chuck Edwards
Republican · NC
Jake Ellzey
Republican · TX
Brad Finstad
Republican · MN
Vicente Gonzalez
Democrat · TX
Lance Gooden
Republican · TX
Recent Actions
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 412.
Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Energy and Commerce. H. Rept. 119-482.
Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Energy and Commerce. H. Rept. 119-482.
Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 24 - 21.
Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote.
Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
Referred to the Subcommittee on Energy.
Committees (1)
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5 articles about this bill
NAHB-Supported Energy Choice Act Introduced in Congress
Congressman Nick Langworthy Introduces Energy Choice Act to ...
NAHB Blitzes Capitol Hill in Support of Energy Choice Act
'Energy Choice Act' Seeks to Block Local Gas Bans
U.S. House Committee Advances Energy Choice Act
Ted Harris·Dec 7, 2025Full Bill Text
Open in New TabFull Bill Text
View the complete legislative text on Congress.gov
Source: Congress.gov