The AQMD rejected measures aimed at reducing air pollution by imposing surcharges that would’ve made natural gas-powered water heaters and furnaces more expensive to buy in Southern California.

The vote came after a stern warning to the AQMD board from the U.S. attorney in Los Angeles, that any action to impede use of domestic energy resources would face a legal challenge.

On a 7 to 5 vote, the South Coast Air Quality Management District on Friday rejected controversial measures aimed at reducing air pollution by imposing surcharges that could make natural gas-powered water heaters and furnaces more expensive to buy.

In voting to deny the measures, AQMD board member Janet Nguyen said the rule would unnecessarily penalize people by raising the cost of household appliances.

“I, like ever

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