MORRIS TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Morris County) — The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Morris Township challenging a local ordinance that restricts the use of natural gas and other fuels in certain new construction.
The complaint, filed last month in U.S. District Court in New Jersey, targets a township measure that bans natural gas, propane and fuel oil infrastructure and appliances in specific building projects.
Federal officials argue the ordinance conflicts with national energy policy and federal authority over appliance regulations.
“This latest litigation in New Jersey follows two successful lawsuits in California as this Department of Justice fights to make energy more affordable for Americans,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Radical environmentalist policies that drive up costs and limit consumer choice will not stand.”
“The Department brought this lawsuit to protect American citizens the Township abandoned by kowtowing to progressive fearmongering in passing its natural gas ban,” said Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward.
“The Township’s illegal interference with national energy policy must be stopped,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate. “Congress preempted local efforts to outlaw gas stoves and other appliances Americans count on and prefer. This case is about upholding that choice.”
“Where the federal government has exclusive authority to regulate appliances and infrastructure, we will fight state and local overreach,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “Banning natural gas is illegal. It makes heating, cooking, drying, and other life functions more unaffordable for consumers. This Administration is committed to unleashing American energy and empowering Americans.”
The lawsuit is part of a broader effort by the Justice Department to challenge similar local policies. Officials cited prior cases in California where municipalities rescinded natural gas restrictions following federal legal action.
