California is considering a new law that would require all new gas stoves sold in the state to have a warning label about the pollutants they can release, which have been linked to respiratory illnesses. The state Assembly has approved the proposal, and it now heads to the state Senate for further consideration.
If the bill becomes law, gas stoves or ranges made or sold online after 2024, or sold in a store after 2025, would need to carry the warning label. Supporters of the legislation say it is an important step in addressing childhood asthma and other respiratory problems, while opponents argue that the state should focus on promoting better ventilation in buildings to improve air quality.
The label would warn users that breathing in large concentrations of chemicals like nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and benzene could worsen existing respiratory illnesses and increase the risk of developing leukemia and asthma, especially in children. It would also mention that ventilation can help lower the risk of exposure to these chemicals.
Gas stoves have been a hot topic in recent years, with debates over climate policy, childhood health, and consumer choice. Some cities, like Berkeley, California, have tried to ban natural gas in new homes and buildings, but have faced legal challenges.
About 40% of U.S. households use gas for cooking, according to The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, which opposes the California bill. They argue that adding another label does not address the overall concern of indoor air quality while cooking, as all forms of cooking can generate air pollutants.
Experts recommend improving ventilation while cooking by using a range hood that vents to the outdoors, or by using a fan or opening windows if a range hood is not available. There is growing evidence that chemicals released by gas stoves can worsen symptoms for people with respiratory problems and may contribute to childhood asthma cases.
Some compare the debate over gas stoves to past fights to regulate seatbelts and tobacco products, as new data emerges about their potential health impacts.
The Associated Press contributed to this article.