In direct conflict with Lawrence’s goals for renewable energy, state lawmakers have passed a bill backed by the natural gas industry that prohibits cities from making any rules or requirements that would limit the use of natural gas or propane. The Kansas Gas Service sponsored the bill, and private gas companies such as Black Hills Energy have also expressed support for the bill, saying that the bill is “preserving energy choice,” as the Journal-World previously reported. … Both the City of Lawrence and Douglas County have submitted testimony against the bill. Jasmin Moore, the sustainability director for the city and county, said the language of the bill is very broad about what actions would be prohibited, and that many things might “have the effect of” limiting natural gas use. She said that includes efforts toward energy efficiency, improving building codes, and encouraging energy conservation.
Source: LJWorld.com.
