SACRAMENTO, Calif. – (September 16, 2024) --- On August 30th, Governor Gavin Newsom called the Legislature into a special session to focus on stabilizing California’s volatile gas prices. Assemblymember Mike A. Gipson (D-Carson) has introduced AB X2-8, designed to delay the implementation of air pollution regulations on petroleum tanker vessels, ensuring that California’s fuel supply remains stable and accessible.
“Californians are already feeling the pain at the pump,” said Assemblymember Mike A. Gipson (D-Carson). “Without immediate action, we risk compounding this burden by disrupting our state’s fuel supply. We all support reducing emissions and transitioning to cleaner energy, but we cannot do so at the cost of immediate energy needs. My bill will delay the implementation of regulations that industries are happy to comply with but are not yet ready to meet, giving time to build the necessary infrastructure while protecting both our economy and our environment. By delaying the enforcement of these regulations until January 1, 2027, for vessels visiting the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach and until January 1, 2029, for other California ports, we will ensure that the state’s energy demands are met without risking an economic crisis.”
Without this legislative intervention, California could face severe disruptions to its fuel supply. The tanker fleet, which is responsible for transporting 75% of the state’s imported crude oil, may be forced to reduce ship visits, leading to fuel shortages and further increasing gas prices. Assemblymember Gipson remains committed to finding balanced solutions that protect both California’s economy and its environment.