NPGA Joins Lawsuit Against Washington State’s Heat Pump

In a united effort, NPGA has joined forces with other trade associations and companies to file a federal lawsuit against the state of Washington. The legal action comes in response to the Washington State Building Code Council (SBCC) implementing amendments to the state code that would require using heat pumps for space and water heating starting from July 1, 2023.

The journey to this lawsuit began when the Washington Governor introduced bills in 2021 and 2022 to eliminate gas infrastructure for heating in new construction. Although these bills did not pass, the SBCC took matters into its own hands and made backdoor amendments to the state code, effectively mandating the use of heat pumps.

Recognizing the similarity between the Washington SBCC’s changes and the recent Ninth Circuit decision in Berkeley, California, a coalition comprising NPGA, PPGA member Blue Star Gas, and other supporting parties filed a state court action in late February 2023. Building on this momentum, a parallel lawsuit was filed in Federal court, with NPGA named a plaintiff.

The legal challenges aim to protect the rights of consumers and businesses in Washington, ensuring they can choose their preferred heating options without being forced into a specific technology. NPGA remains committed to advocating for the propane industry and fighting against unjust mandates that limit choice and hinder progress.