Colorado has become the first state to require warning notices for indoor gas stoves, informing buyers about potential health risks — a move now facing pushback in federal court.
The rule, effective since June under HB25-1161, mandates that stores display English and Spanish warnings with a QR code or link to a state website. The site explains how pollutants like nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and fine particles from gas stoves can harm health, and offers tips to reduce exposure.
Governor Jared Polis, typically opposed to state-specific labeling, backed this measure because it applies only at the point of sale, not on the appliances themselves. He compared it to recent bipartisan laws on cultured meat labeling.
The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) has sued, claiming the law violates First Amendment rights by forcing companies to promote what they call a “one-sided and scientifically disputed” view. They argue the warnings ignore research showing no definitive long-term health link, single out gas appliances unfairly, and stem from political opposition to fossil fuels.
A 2024 Stanford study, however, found that gas and propane stoves often produce nitrogen dioxide levels high enough to cause or worsen asthma, impair lung growth in children, and raise the risk of premature death. Researchers estimate such pollution could contribute to nearly 19,000 deaths annually — comparable to 40% of secondhand smoke–related deaths.
The legal challenge could determine whether Colorado’s approach — similar to California’s Proposition 65 warnings — becomes a national model or a cautionary tale.
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Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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