Madison – Rep. Scott Johnson (R-Hebron) voted in favor of legislation prohibiting state and local governments in Wisconsin from banning the sales or use of products based on their energy source.
The state of California has banned the sale of new vehicles with gas-powered engines by 2035, with other states already making the same commitment. Minnesota has proposed banning gas stoves and even Zambonis, used to resurface ice rinks. Local governments across the country have also introduced bans on gas-powered devices, such as lawn mowers and home power washers.
“These ridiculous policies would not just create a ripple effect, but rather a wave of un-needed expenses. Hard working people are already burdened by historical high inflation costs. Constituents like mine and many others who live in rural communities rely on the use of natural gas and petroleum to heat their homes, cook their meals, and power the machines that are used to literally produce the food that we all eat.”
AB 141 is simple, prohibiting state and local governments from restricting the sale or use of an item based on its source of energy.
AB 142 prohibits state agencies and local governments from banning the use or sale of motor vehicles based on their energy source. This measure isn’t limited to only gas, it includes electric vehicles as well.
After the vote, Rep. Johnson said, “Whether its gas or electric, the consumer deserves the right to be able to choose. I am grateful to my friend Representative Ellen Schutt for introducing these bills based from common sense. As the Vice-Chair on the Committee for Consumer Protection, and just a common sense legislator, I’m proud to have supported these pieces of legislation. I ask my colleagues in the senate do the same.”
