Berkeley to Repeal Landmark Natural Gas Ban

The decision follows a legal battle and court ruling that the ban violates federal law.

The City of Berkeley agrees to repeal its landmark natural gas ban in new buildings, following a legal settlement with the California Restaurant Association.
The repeal comes after the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled the ban violates federal law, which reserves energy-efficiency standards setting for the U.S. government.
Immediate nonenforcement of the ban will take place while the city works through the legislative process to officially repeal the ordinance.
This development sets a precedent that may influence other California cities with similar bans, urging them to reconsider their policies.
Environmental groups and industry associations have expressed mixed reactions, highlighting the ongoing debate over local versus federal authority in climate policy.