Story perspectives

California's Controversial Climate Package Sparks Oil Industry Backlash

9/15/2025

Summary

Story summary

California lawmakers approved a climate and energy package, extending cap-and-trade to 2045 and allowing new oil drilling amid rising energy costs.
Critics claim the package prioritizes the oil industry, potentially raising consumer costs.
Governor Gavin Newsom faces backlash for concessions to oil companies, raising concerns from environmental justice advocates about pollution in low-income areas.
Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson threatens legal action against the U.S. Energy Department over delays in the Hanford Nuclear Reservation cleanup, highlighting state-federal tensions.

History

Historical Context

California's Assembly Bill 32, enacted in 2006, mandated a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020, establishing a cap-and-trade system. The 2016 SB 32 law further aimed for a 40% reduction by 2030. The recent extension of cap-and-trade to 2045 highlights ongoing conflicts between environmental objectives and oil industry interests, raising concerns about equity and environmental justice in vulnerable communities.

1 of 2

Story summary

California lawmakers approved a climate and energy package, extending cap-and-trade to 2045 and allowing new oil drilling amid rising energy costs.
Critics claim the package prioritizes the oil industry, potentially raising consumer costs.
Governor Gavin Newsom faces backlash for concessions to oil companies, raising concerns from environmental justice advocates about pollution in low-income areas.
Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson threatens legal action against the U.S. Energy Department over delays in the Hanford Nuclear Reservation cleanup, highlighting state-federal tensions.

1 / 2