A new bill introduced in Illinois could soon require health warning labels on gas appliances such as stoves, ovens, and water heaters.
House Bill 4272, sponsored by Rep. Michael Crawford (D-31st), aims to prohibit the sale of any non-externally vented natural gas appliance unless it displays a warning about potential respiratory health risks.
If enacted, the bill would amend the state’s Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practice Act to mandate that manufacturers place a label stating: “WARNING: Gas appliances can release nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide inside homes at levels exceeding the Environmental Protection Agency’s standards for outdoor air quality. The presence of these pollutants may exacerbate pre-existing respiratory illnesses or lead to the development of asthma, especially in children. Gas appliances should never be used without a ducted vent hood to reduce exposure to these emissions.”
Illinois Democrats attempted to pass a similar measure in 2023, but that bill did not make it out of the Rules Committee.
Nationally, researchers estimate that gas stoves contribute to asthma in about 13% of cases. Approximately 35% of U.S. households currently use a gas stove.
If approved, HB4272 would take effect on January 1, 2027.