In response to these concerns, the House is set to consider two bills related to gas stoves. The first bill, known as the Gas Stove Protection and Freedom Act, aims to prevent the use of federal funds for banning gas stoves or imposing safety standards that would lead to a ban or significantly increase the price of gas stoves.
The second bill, called the Save Our Gas Stoves Act, seeks to prevent the Energy Department from finalizing or enforcing a rule that would ban kitchen ranges or stoves based on their fuel type.
"This does not impact the majority and it certainly doesn’t say that anybody who has a gas stove would have their gas stove taken away. … There’s no ban on gas stoves. I have a gas stove. It is just about making the existing electric and gas stoves and all the other appliances more efficient," said Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm to the House Appropriations Committee.
Republicans argue that banning gas stoves represents government overreach and interference in the lives of Americans. On the other hand, the Biden administration maintains that the proposed regulations for new gas stoves would not affect the majority of gas stove models on the market. The intention is to make appliances more efficient, rather than banning gas stoves altogether.
In addition to the gas stove legislation, the House will also consider the Regulations from the Executive In Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act. This act aims to enhance Congress's authority over the federal rulemaking process by requiring that major rules, with significant economic effects, receive approval from Congress before taking effect.
Meanwhile, in the Senate, Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has identified several legislative priorities, including measures related to artificial intelligence, lowering prescription drug costs, and strengthening rail safety regulations.
As the debate on gas stoves continues in the House and other important legislative issues are being considered, lawmakers are focusing on various areas to address the concerns and interests of the American people.