Chico Times

Today in Sacramento, Assembly Democrats aligned with the Newsom administration to block a legislative effort aimed at preventing an increase in gas prices. The proposed legislation, Assembly Bill 12, sought to repeal an update to California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard, which is anticipated to raise the state's already high gas prices by up to 65 cents per gallon. Republican lawmakers pushed for the bill during an Assembly floor session but faced rejection along party lines.

Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher from East Nicolaus criticized the decision, stating: “Assembly Democrats talked a big game about affordability this year, but when push comes to shove, they fall right in line with Newsom’s high-cost agenda.” He emphasized that Californians are frustrated with paying some of the highest prices nationwide and cannot rely on Sacramento Democrats for relief.

The increase dubbed as Newsom’s “Hidden Gas Tax” was recently dismissed by the state’s Office of Administrative Law due to procedural errors and lack of clarity. However, Newsom's administration plans to re-submit the mandate with minor modifications.

Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez from Indio supported taking up the bill to overturn the new mandate. He stated: “Californians continue to be burdened with the highest gas prices in the nation. It’s time we focus on lowering the cost of living, not adding to the financial strain.”

Governor Newsom has claimed victories against what he describes as "gas price gouging," yet California drivers still pay $1.70 more per gallon than the national average. This surcharge has risen by 29 cents since March 2023 and increased by 62 cents since January 2019 when Newsom took office.