Even as utility bills rise, advocates speak against proposed 'dirty' gas pipeline project

NEW YORK STATE (WRGB) — New Yorkers are already going to see higher utility bills starting this month, but lawmakers and advocates claim the bills could grow even higher, due to what they call “dirty, fracked gas pipeline” projects.

One of those pipelines under proposal is the “Constitution Pipeline,” which would run from the southwestern edge of Schenectady County all the way to the existing Williams Pipeline in Pennsylvania.

Two Democratic senators joining environmental advocates today in calling out Gov. Hochul.

They say she fast tracked these projects under the Trump administration’s direction.

Katherine Nadeau of Environmental Advocates NY:

“Fracking is incredibly dangerous not just for our planet, but for the people who live around those communities It’s expensive and it’s dangerous. New York State does not have to follow the president down this precarious path. So our message to Governor Hochul is incredibly clear: Say no to the pipelines.”

We’ve reached out to Gov. Hochul and the DEC for comment.

Both say the proposed pipeline is still in the permit review process.

In a statement…. Gov. Hochul’s senior communications advisor says in part:

“The only commitment the Governor made is to work with anyone on new energy projects that meet the legal requirements under New York law.

“Republicans in Congress cut billions in subsidies for renewable energy, we’d hope these legislators and advocates would join the Governor in pushing an all-of-the-above approach to ensure we keep the lights on for New Yorkers while also prioritizing affordability and strong economic development.”