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California may require homeowners to replace broken A/C units with heat pumps starting in 2026

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California may require homeowners to replace broken A/C units with heat pumps starting in 2026

California may require homeowners to replace their broken air conditioning units with heat pumps or more efficient HVAC systems beginning in 2026, draft rules released last month by state energy regulators show. Encouraging the adoption of heat pumps, which both cool and heat homes using electricity, is key to the state’s carbon neutrality goals. The California Energy Commission aims to quadruple the number of homes with heat pumps to 6 million by 2030. If the 600-page draft code is approved next year, California would be the first state to require broken A/C units be replaced with heat pumps or more efficient systems. Environmental groups are encouraged, saying the regulation would cut emissions and save homeowners money.

Hochul wants to spend $41 million to repair eastern approach steps of Capitol

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Hochul wants to spend $41 million to repair eastern approach steps of Capitol

ALBANY — Gov. Kathy Hochul has proposed a $41 million expenditure to repair the hallowed grand staircase on the front of the state Capitol.

The East-facing steps to the Capitol, which provide views looking toward the Hudson River, are set to undergo a rehabilitation that could re-open the towering but disintegrating staircase that has been closed for years due to safety concerns.

It's part of a broader proposal by Hochul to spend $242 million on infrastructure projects related to state government. State officials have budgeted on the assumption that the federal government's "Build Back Better Act" will not pass in Congress.