New York Governor Kathy Hochul has taken steps to mitigate inflation's impact on households, particularly for low-income families. One of her key measures is the Energy Affordability Program (EAP), which provides financial relief by ensuring that energy costs do not exceed 6% of a household's income. This program aims to assist public utility customers who qualify based on income levels, either being below the state average or the average in specific utility service areas such as those served by Con Edison or National Grid.

In a significant policy shift, Hochul has also signed a law that removes subsidies for new residential gas connections. This law represents a move towards reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting cleaner energy alternatives in the state. The legislation is part of Hochul's broader efforts to address energy affordability while transitioning to sustainable energy solutions, reflecting increasing concerns about climate change and environmental policies.

The elimination of these subsidies is expected to have a substantial impact on future energy infrastructure development and the types of energy sources that new developments will consider. By curtailing financial incentives for gas connections, the state encourages residents and developers to seek alternatives, potentially speeding up New York's transition to greener energy options in alignment with national and global climate targets.