SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Today, the Minnesota House Labor and Industry Finance and Policy Committee heard House File 2165, authored by Rep. Larry Kraft (DFL – Saint Louis Park). In an effort to use a new generation of refrigerants that have as much as 75% less global warming potential, the bill prohibits using the State Building Code to bar or limit the use of refrigerants that federal law designates as acceptable to use.
“Quickly phasing down hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants is a critical piece to combatting climate change globally and could avert .5 degrees celsius of warming this century,” said Rep Kraft. “This bill is good for our climate and makes sense for the business community too. With more climate-friendly refrigerants available, we should be doing everything we can to empower businesses to use them.”
Manager of Government Affairs for the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute Christopher Resee testified in support of the bill. The Senate’s companion bill is awaiting its first hearing. The bill was re-referred to the House General Register for consideration by the entire body.
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