Part 6/12:
Furthermore, the agreement proposes loosening environmental regulations to incentivize the oil industry, including measures to suspend higher fuel standards during price spikes—a clear retreat from previous standards aimed at curbing pollution. It also removes legal hurdles for new oil wells, particularly targeting orphaned or abandoned sites, all in a bid to ensure continued oil supplies amid refinery closures.
The underlying implication? A retreat from aggressive environmental policy that could undermine California’s climate commitments, veering instead toward accommodating the oil industry, even if it means compromising air quality and public health.