Gas stove protections signed into law

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FLV) – Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation that prohibits local governments from restricting or banning the use of any major appliance such as gas stoves or grills.

The initiative was brought in response to a Biden administration official who said in an interview that gas stoves are a “hidden hazard.” Federal regulators were reportedly mulling a nationwide ban on gas stoves.

“You’re not taking our gas stoves away from us, that is your choice and I know many people who cook a lot do not want to part with their gas stoves and so, we’re gonna stand up for that,” DeSantis said in January.

The White House said in January that President Joe Biden does not support banning gas stoves.

Rep. James Buchanan, R-Osprey, and Sen. Jay Collins, R-Tampa, sponsored the legislation.

The Senate approved the bill 33-4 and 98-16 in the House.

Local governments have powers related to the provision of utility or other energy services to property owners or utility customers, according to the bill’s analysis.

Supporters said it will protect appliances such as stoves, water heaters, fireplaces, clothes dryers, pool heaters, generators and gas grills.

The Florida Natural Gas Association Executive Director Dale Calhoun praised the bill signing, call gas stoves “critical” to families and businesses.

“Floridians are fortunate to have such a staunch champion for gas stoves and freedom in Governor DeSantis,” Calhoun said. “This new law which soon takes effect, proves that freedom reigns here in the Sunshine State and ensures power-hungry local governments cannot infringe on Floridians’ right to own and operate a gas stove.”

The Florida Natural Gas Association said there are more than 700,000 homes and 70,000 businesses in the state that depend on natural gas.

The natural gas association said natural gas is essential in states prone to hurricanes.

DeSantis said in June that while Florida does not have as many gas lines as in the Northeast, it’s “your choice” to make the decision on which method is used.

Separate from the legislation, there is a one-year sales tax exemption on gas stoves and Energy Star appliances as part of the state’s tax cuts.

The DeSantis team began advertising “Don’t Tread on Florida” merchandise, featuring images of gas stoves on aprons.

“When we say Don’t Tread on Florida… that includes OUR GAS STOVES!” Team DeSantis shared on Twitter.