**PRESS RELEASE**

Florida Tax Package Cuts Taxes on Natural Gas Equipment; Advances Renewable Natural Gas Production 

HB 7063 Passes Both Chambers with Strong Support

Tallahassee, FL - The Florida Natural Gas Association (FNGA) today thanked Florida’s legislative leadership for increasing access to clean and reliable natural gas across the Sunshine State. House Bill 7063 cuts taxes on natural gas equipment, extends a tax cut on natural gas fuel and promotes the production of renewable natural gas. The legislation was voted favorably by both chambers and will be sent to the Governor for signature.

“While other states are imposing dangerous policies to ban natural gas and natural gas appliances, we have the freedom to use clean, reliable natural gas here in the Sunshine State,” said Dale Calhoun, executive director of FNGA. “These tax cuts make natural gas appliances and equipment more accessible to consumers so they can enjoy all the benefits of this American energy source. We are grateful to Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, House Speaker Paul Renner and Chair Stan McClain for their leadership and support for domestic energy.”

The bill provides a one-year sales tax exemption, from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, on the retail sale of gas ranges and cooktops, which are defined as any range or cooktop fueled by combustible gas such as natural gas, propane, butane, liquefied petroleum gas, or other flammable gas.

In addition, the legislation provides for a 14-week sales tax holiday from May 29 through September 4, 2023, for recreational equipment, including outdoor gas or charcoal grills selling for $250 or less.

HB 7063 also extends tax exemptions on natural gas fuel to January 1, 2026. This program, which was expected to expire January 1, 2024, has provided great relief to businesses converting commercial fleets to CNG or LNG-powered vehicles. The extension of the tax cut effectively avoids a tax increase, which would have harmed businesses’ ability to invest in their workforce.

Importantly, HB 7063 promotes the production of renewable natural gas (RNG) by imposing a permanent exemption on machinery and equipment purchased for the purpose of RNG production.

“By increasing production of RNG, we’re reducing carbon emissions and creating more home-grown energy to power Florida’s homes and businesses. It’s a win-win.”

RNG is generated from biogas, landfill gas, or wastewater treatment gas. The source is refined to a methane content of 90 percent or greater, which may be used as transportation fuel or for electric generation or is of a quality capable of being injected into a natural gas pipeline.

Learn more about HB 7063: https://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Bills/billsdetail.aspx?BillId=78552

The Florida Natural Gas Association (FNGA) was established in 1961 to promote, protect and encourage the growth of the natural gas industry in Florida. The association has been working to protect the interests of the natural gas industry, its members and consumers.