Chico Times

Assembly Republicans have introduced a comprehensive legislative package aimed at addressing California's affordability crisis. The announcement was made during a press conference in Sacramento, where the lawmakers outlined their plans to provide relief to working families burdened by high living costs.

Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher emphasized the need for action, stating, “For years, Californians have been struggling under the weight of high taxes and skyrocketing costs, all while Democrats in Sacramento refuse to offer real solutions. Our plan provides tangible relief and delivers the affordability that hardworking families deserve.”

The proposed legislation focuses on reducing expenses related to food, gas, housing, insurance, health care, and utilities. Among the key measures are proposals to cut utility rates by 30 percent, suspend the gas tax and future increases, and eliminate state income tax on tips received.

The legislative package includes several bills:

- AB 12 (Wallis, Gallagher, Patterson) aims to void recent amendments to the Low Carbon Fuel Standard.

- AB 286 (Gallagher) seeks a 30 percent reduction in electric rates through the Public Utilities Commission.

- AB 490 (Tangipa) offers a tax deduction for interest on auto loans.

- AB 547 (Tangipa) proposes a tax credit for families covering out-of-pocket IVF costs.

- AB 658 (Gonzalez) intends to halt vehicle tax hikes.

- AB 780 (Castillo) provides businesses an opportunity to address issues before facing ADA lawsuits.

- AB 838 (Ta) increases renter’s tax credits to $1,000 for single filers and $2,000 for joint filers.

- AB 856 (Chen) eliminates state sales taxes on manufacturing equipment.

- AB 1058 (Gonzalez) suggests suspending the gas tax while using general funds for transportation projects.

- AB 1219 (Wallis) is described as the largest middle-class tax cut in California history.

- AB 1268 (Macedo) aims to prevent further gas tax increases.

- AB 1282 (Gonzalez) allows deductions of up to $5,000 in medical costs from income taxes.

- AB 1443 (Castillo) seeks to eliminate state income tax on tips.

A video replay of the press conference is available online.