Fossil Fuel Reduction Cut From California Climate Bill

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Legislation that would have required slashing California fossil fuel use under a measure before state legislators has been dropped from a key climate change bill. Gov. Jerry Brown and other lawmakers cut a major portion of the state’s plan to fight climate change and amend S.B. 350. The bill’s original markup called for a 50% reduction of petroleum-based fuels by 2030.

Brown and other Democratic lawmakers complained that staunch opposition from the “oil lobby” had thwarted their plans. “Oil has won the skirmish, but they’ve lost the bigger battle because I am more determined than ever,” said Brown.

The Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) responded that Californians are “best served by inclusive energy policy and by a legislative body that retains authority on issues so critically important to jobs, communities, and our way of life.” S.B. 350 would have given oversight authority to the California Air Resources Board, a panel appointed by the governor.

“WSPA and its member companies remain committed to working with Gov. Jerry Brown and legislators on climate change and energy policy,” said association president Catherine Reheis-Boyd. “Today’s announcement was an acknowledgement that California’s energy future, economic competitiveness, and environment are inextricably linked.”

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