The Appellate Division of the New York State Supreme Court, Third Department, has granted an injunction preventing the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation from enforcing a ban on two refrigerants used in commercial refrigeration systems across New York.
The injunction will remain in effect until the court determines whether the broader regulation should be overturned. The decision follows public concern over the affordability and operational impacts of the state’s refrigeration regulations.
A statewide survey commissioned by Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International found that 71% of New York homeowners believe refrigerant regulations will increase costs for grocery stores and food retailers. The survey also found that 87% would be concerned about higher food prices if refrigerant shortages or service delays disrupted grocery store operations.
According to the survey, 82% said regulations should be adjusted or delayed if they risk increasing food costs or causing supply disruptions. Sixty-five percent believe refrigeration regulations could make repairs harder or contribute to store closures, while 86% said reliable access to refrigerants for equipment repair and maintenance is important for grocery stores and food suppliers.
“These survey results confirm that consumers are worried about policies that disrupt refrigeration access and their consequences on grocery expenses,” said Alex Ayers, HARDI’s Vice President of Government Affairs. “The court’s decision is a crucial opportunity for policymakers to fully evaluate the economic and operational impacts of these regulations on families and the broader food supply chain.”
The survey of 500 New York State homeowners who are U.S. citizens was conducted by YouGov between April 23 and May 4, 2026. The margin of error is ±5.4%.
