California Climate Rule Could Evolve Before May Vote

CARB chair Lauren Sanchez said updates to California’s cap-and-invest program remain open to changes after stakeholder feedback ahead of a May vote, with the plan potentially tightening emission credits and speeding reductions while boosting disclosures. The proposal has drawn backlash from industry and environmentalists, who warn it could raise costs for oil refiners and fuel, hasten refinery closures, and lift already high gas prices; supporters say it’s crucial to reach carbon neutrality by 2045. The measure extends the program to 2045, and California gas prices—about $5.48 per gallon—partly reflect the program’s costs (roughly 24 cents per gallon).