Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – 4/22/26… Today, Reps. Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) introduced the Energy Affordability and Reliability Act of 2026, legislation to establish a new Office of Energy Affordability within the Department of Energy (DOE) to ensure federal energy policy is rigorously evaluated for its impact on consumer costs and energy reliability. 

The legislation creates the Office of Energy Affordability within DOE’s Office of Policy, tasking it with reviewing proposed regulations and policies that involve energy transitions or shifts in energy sources. The Office would assess whether actions include transparent analysis of both short-term and long-term impacts on energy costs, incorporate strategies to protect affordability, and promote reliable, cost-effective energy access for consumers.

“Energy affordability and reliability are fundamental to the strength of our economy and the well-being of Hudson Valley families. In the midst of an energy affordability crisis that the State of New York is more than happy to exacerbate with fad green energy policies, an Office of Energy Affordability within the Department of Energy ensures that every major energy policy is evaluated for its real-world impact on costs, access, and long-term stability for the region and nation it serves,” said Congressman Lawler (NY-17).

“Jersey families are getting crushed by sky-high utility bills — and enough is enough. This bipartisan bill is about putting affordability front and center, and making sure every energy decision in Washington is focused on bringing costs down for hardworking families,” said Congressman Gottheimer (NJ-5). “I’m fighting to deliver reliable, affordable energy and real relief for Jersey.”

The full bill text can be found HERE

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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