California GOP gas price cut bill rejected by committee

California Senate Republicans wanted to cut gas prices by stopping new environmental rules. These rules were part of the Low Carbon Fuel Standard aimed at reducing pollution. However, the Democrats in charge of the Senate committee voted against the Republicans' main bill, Senate Bill 2, during a recent meeting. The bill would have reversed changes made by the state’s air quality regulators that lower acceptable carbon levels in fuels. This change could make gas prices even higher for Californians, who already pay more than the national average. As of Wednesday, the average cost for a gallon of gas in California is $4.65, while the national average is $3.10. Two Republican senators and one Democrat supported the bill, but they needed five votes to move it forward. A spokesperson for Senate Republican Leader Brian Jones said the bill likely won't progress unless there are significant changes in opinions among committee members. The California Air Resources Board has faced criticism for making rules that could increase gas prices by 20 to 84 cents per gallon. Republicans argue these changes were made quickly after a legislative session called by Governor Gavin Newsom to address gas prices. Despite the potential for higher costs, these new regulations are expected to improve air quality for over 70,000 Californians and could attract $100 billion in clean energy investments over the next twenty years. The fuel standard means that companies must lower their fuel's carbon intensity over time, allowing them to receive subsidies for compliance. Senator Hurtado, a Democrat, is concerned about how these rules may affect low-income residents. She is proposing two additional bills aimed at easing the financial burden on consumers and making it easier for the Legislature to hold board members accountable for their decisions. It is still uncertain if these new bills will advance.