Give it up for Long Island for leading the eco-friendly revolution:

Three Long Island towns are requiring new homes to be built energy efficient. Beginning April 1 the building codes in Babylon, Brookhaven and Riverhead require compact fluorescent bulbs and multipaned windows as well as energy star appliances and extra insulation.

The laws apply to single-family homes and multifamily residences of four units or less.

Similar laws take effect in Oyster Bay and Hempstead in August and Huntington next January. Southampton has a measure in place that applies only to affordable housing.

Environmental advocates and the Long Island Power Authority say the laws will save homeowners money, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and tamp down the region's ever-growing energy demands.

In related news, U.S. Congressman Peter T. King is exploring running for Governor of New York State. Rep. King (Republican) has represented Suffolk and Nassau County for the last 16 years and spoke out against the eco-friendly plan.......