The Healthy Buildings Act would promote healthy buildings by requiring new buildings in Baltimore City to include zero-emissions heating and cooking systems instead of gas-burning appliances. All-electric new buildings will be cheaper, safer and healthier.
No Cost – All-electric new construction is less expensive than electric plus gas
No Sacrifice – Only affects new construction – no existing buildings need to change anything
Future-Proof – Eliminates the future cost of converting from gas and reduces the cost of stranded assets
Why This Matters
The Healthy Buildings Act is the low hanging fruit of environmental and health legislation
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Eliminate harmful indoor air pollutants and protect respiratory health.
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Remove fire, explosion, and burn risks from homes and buildings.
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Reduce methane leaks and greenhouse gas emissions.
Health Effects
The hidden dangers of natural gas in our homes. Studies show that cooking with gas can expose your family to pollution levels that would be illegal outdoors, right in your own kitchen.
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Community studies reveal hazardous NO₂ levels in DC and Maryland kitchens. Read the Beyond Gas report —> https://beyondgasdc.org/cooking-up-danger-community-study-reveals-hazardous-nitrogen-dioxide-levels-in-dc-and-maryland-kitchens/
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Natural gas contains methane, benzene (a known carcinogen), hydrogen sulfide, and other harmful pollutants
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Burning natural gas produces nitrogen oxides, formaldehyde, and carbon monoxide in your home.
Cost Savings
Lower costs for construction and operation.
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All-electric buildings eliminate the need for dual infrastructure, reducing both initial construction costs and ongoing maintenance expenses.
✓ No gas line installation required
✓ Simplified permitting process
✓ Reduced infrastructure complexity
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Electric appliances are more efficient and cost less to operate over their lifetime.
✓ Heat pumps are 3x more efficient than gas furnaces
✓ Induction stoves convert 85% of energy vs. 40% for gas
✓ Lower maintenance and repair costs
Safety Benefits
Eliminate fire, explosion, and burn risks: eliminating gas from buildings means eliminating the risk of gas leaks, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning. It's simply safer for families and communities.
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Electric appliances eliminate open flames and combustion, drastically reducing fire and explosion hazards in homes and buildings.
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Induction stoves are cool to the touch and eliminate burn risks. The cooking surface only heats the cookware, not your hand or a dish towel.
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Local developers are choosing not to install gas in buildings they own due to the significant fire and liability risks.