Protestors rally against Hochul’s proposed changes to climate law

ALBANY, N.Y. (WRGB) — Hundreds of protesters gathered at the State Capitol Wednesday, calling on Governor Kathy Hochul to leave New York’s climate law intact and raising concerns about energy costs.

Earlier this week, Hochul signaled plans to seek changes to the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which was passed in 2019. The law was designed to move New York toward greater energy efficiency and reduced emissions.

The governor has argued that shifting economic conditions and rising costs have made the state’s near-term emissions targets difficult to meet without increasing household and business expenses. If the proposed changes are enacted, New York would not be legally required to act under the law until 2030.

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Critics, however, say the law—if fully implemented—would lower energy bills over time.

CBS6 spoke Ethan Gormley, a climate justice organizer from Citizen Action of New York, who expressed concern about rising energy prices and the potential impact of weakening the law.

“Look at the gas pump right now. Look at our heating bills,” said Gormley. “The current system that we live in is not affordable.”

“So the way to really change that is to start really investing in a meaningful way in renewable energy.”

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If these changes go into effect, New York would not be bound to act under the law until at least 2030.

Meanwhile, New York State Police say 18 people were arrested for trespass and issued appearance tickets for Albany City Court.

Three people were arrested for trespassing and resisting arrest.