CALIFORNIA, USA — The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is facing criticism as its about to make a decision that could possibly raise gas prices. CARB's goal is to protect public health through climate change programs, and its members are all appointed by the governor.
Just days ago, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill with a goal to lower the cost of gas, and agreed Californians deserved transparency when it comes to how much they pay at the pump. But on Friday, clarity was not a part of a briefing held by CARB. The board is expected to make a decision on Nov. 8 regarding the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) that could potentially raise gas prices.
"What is this going to look like for Californians? So an estimate was given at that time of 47 cents additional to the price per gallon in California," said Sen. Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa).
Senate Republicans say they were given an estimate of 47 cents last year, but now, CARB says it has no way of predicting how much it would impact the price of gas.
"It's an estimate of a cost pass through for various scenarios, not meant to represent a retail price, but the difference between the scenarios is important, not the absolute number that's represented there," said Dr. Steven Cliff, CARB's Executive Officer.
That being said, it's still unclear how much it will impact gas prices. Senate and Congressional Republicans have written multiple letters to CARB encouraging the board to delay their decision.
"Let's wait. There's nothing wrong with waiting and letting people catch up and have a breather," said Sen. Ochoa Bogh.
However, CARB believes waiting could lead to bigger issues.
"It would really delay a lot of funding of important things in California such as infrastructure and clean energy projects that can be incentivized through the low carbon fuel standard," said Dr. Cliff.
On Friday, Newsom urged CARB to implement the gas blend containing 15% ethanol, known as E-15, with the hopes of saving drivers up to 20 cents per gallon.
"It doesn't necessarily ultimately mean that we move to E-15, but it's a first step in that very important process," said Dr. Cliff.
Again, it's still unclear if CARB will comply. If CARB's decision next month does increase the cost of gas, Senate Republicans say they will put pressure on the board to ensure they're held accountable for their actions. CARB's meeting is open for the public to attend.
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