Kings County Times

Today, Representatives David G. Valadao and Michelle Steel led the California Republican Congressional delegation in addressing the California Air Resources Board (CARB). They requested a delay in CARB's scheduled vote on November 8 regarding amendments to the Lower Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS). The representatives are asking for transparency about how these changes could affect gas prices.

In September 2023, CARB reported that these amendments might increase gas prices by 47 cents per gallon in 2025. However, they have since retracted this analysis and have not provided an updated cost assessment.

"Californians are already paying the highest gas prices in the nation because of our state’s gas tax," said Congressman Valadao. "It is unacceptable that unelected bureaucrats at CARB are attempting to quietly pass new rules that will raise gas prices even more for Central Valley families. I strongly urge CARB to delay this vote until they provide a full and complete analysis of how their actions will impact gas prices for consumers."

Congresswoman Steel added, "Governor Newsom’s bureaucracy in Sacramento continues to make life unaffordable for Californians without considering input from affected citizens. State agencies should not be enacting new regulations raising our cost of living by dramatically increasing already-high gas prices. CARB must delay their November 8 vote and study the impact their regulations will have on all Californians."

The letter from lawmakers highlights that Californians currently face the highest gas prices nationwide. Earlier this year, Rep. Valadao sent a letter to Governor Newsom expressing concerns over LCFS amendments and annual increases in the gas tax.

"CARB’s new and deceitful approach comes as Californians continue to weather gas prices $1.50 per gallon above national averages, as well as a July hike in the gas excise tax to 59.6 cents per gallon," stated the lawmakers. "CARB has misleadingly billed these amendments as a regulatory burden limited to fossil fuel producers and importers. Unfortunately, there is no doubt that Californians will continue to pay the price."

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