Relates to standards relating to hydrofluorocarbon substances

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Addabbo and 6 co-sponsors

New York will align HFC rules with federal standards as of Oct 1, 2025, repealing stricter state rules while preserving broader climate and energy programs.

REFERRED TO ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION

Summary of Bill S.9066 (2025-2026) – New York

Purpose and Intent

Align New York state regulations on hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) substances with federal standards to the extent of those federal rules in effect as of October 1, 2025.

Repeal state rules that exceed the stringency of federal HFC regulations, while preserving core state authorities on broader greenhouse gas policy, energy efficiency, and related programs.

Key Provisions

Section 19-0301, new subdivision 6:

a) State rules and regulations on HFC substances must conform to, and not exceed, applicable federal rules set forth in 40 C.F.R. Part 84 as in effect on Oct 1, 2025.
Defines “hydrofluorocarbon substances” as those used in air conditioning and refrigeration equipment, aerosol propellants, foams, or solvents, as regulated under 42 U.S.C. § 7675 and 40 C.F.R. Part 84.
b) Any state regulation, requirement, or prohibition on HFCs that is more stringent than the federal standard as of Oct 1, 2025 is repealed and of no force to the extent it is more stringent.
c) Clarifies that nothing in this subdivision: 1) Limits the state’s authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions under article 75. 2) Restricts programs addressing energy efficiency, electrification, refrigerant reclamation, or other measures consistent with New York’s climate laws and protections. 3) Prevents the department from enforcing labeling, reporting, or reclamation requirements identical to federal requirements for consistency and compliance assistance.

§ 2 (Severability): If any clause is invalid, the remainder remains in effect. Legislature intends the act to stand even if some provisions are struck down.

§ 3 (Effective Date): Immediate effect upon enactment.

Who/What Is Affected

New York Department of Environmental Conservation (or equivalent state agency) implements HFC-related rules.

State and local agencies applying HFC standards, licensing, labeling, reporting, reclamation requirements.

Industries and stakeholders handling HFCs (air conditioning, refrigeration, aerosols, foams, solvents) subject to state regulations mirroring federal standards.

Broader climate and energy programs remain unaffected and can continue under existing state authority (e.g., GHG regulation, energy efficiency, electrification initiatives).

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Introduction date: January 28, 2026.

Referred to the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee for consideration.

Effective date: immediately upon enactment.

Potential Impact

regulatory alignment: reduces potential state-imposed stringency beyond federal HFC standards, promoting uniformity with federal rules as of 2025.

predictability for businesses: clearer, federal-consistent compliance requirements for HFCs.

state policy flexibility: preserves broader climate and energy initiatives, allowing continued state leadership in emissions reductions and related programs within the scope of article 75 and other laws.

enforcement and compliance: may maintain or streamline labeling, reporting, and reclamation requirements consistent with federal practices.

If you’d like, I can provide a side-by-side comparison with the current NY HFC rules and the specific federal standards (40 C.F.R. Part 84) as of October 1, 2025.