Part 7/10:
Amidst the gun law battles, California faces ongoing issues with energy policy. The state’s decision to shut down and sell off refineries, such as the Benicia Valero, has led to reduced gasoline production—by about 20%. This move comes despite the state's aggressive push against fossil fuels, which has contributed to higher energy prices and increased reliance on imported oil from the Middle East.
Adding to the irony, California's policies—aimed at creating a cleaner environment—have resulted in a paradoxical situation: energy scarcity and higher costs suggest that the state’s environmental efforts may be counterproductive. The energy sector's decline reflects a broader trend of policy decisions that favor environmental rhetoric over economic practicality.