At the start of California’s new legislative session, two lawmakers introduced bills aimed at addressing a controversial decision made by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). This comes after concerns that CARB’s recent amendments to the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) could lead to higher gas prices.
The LCFS is a state initiative designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as part of California’s goal to transition to zero emissions by 2045. It allows major polluters, such as oil companies, to buy credits to avoid penalties for emitting carbon.
Republican Senator Brian Jones (R-San Diego) and Assemblymember Joe Patterson (R-Rocklin) both introduced bills targeting CARB’s decision, which critics argue could increase fuel costs. Jones’ bill, SB2, aims to repeal the board’s November decision. If passed, the bill would take effect immediately upon the governor’s approval.
Patterson’s AB34 calls for the Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) to review any new regulations proposed by CARB before they are enacted. Patterson wants the LAO to assess the potential impact on gas and electricity prices, providing transparency for both the legislature and the public.
CARB Board Member Dean Florez expressed openness to additional legislative oversight but criticized the introduction of individual bills. “I’d rather see a more comprehensive discussion than one-off bills to grab a couple of headlines,” Florez told ABC10. He added that while he voted against CARB’s decision, the real issue is whether the board can make the right policy decisions moving forward.
In response, Patterson disagreed with Florez, emphasizing that this is a matter for the legislature and the people, not unelected bureaucrats in Sacramento.
As Democrats hold the majority in California, ABC10 inquired about the likelihood of the Republican bills gaining traction without bipartisan support, but did not receive a response. Neither CARB nor the governor’s office commented on the proposed legislation, though the governor’s office stated that the bills would be evaluated based on their merits if they make it to his desk.
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