California Remains at a Crossroads As Governor Puts Kern EIR Back in Place

The Wall Street Journal reported this past week that after years of pushing to phase out fossil fuels, California leaders are now scrambling to keep the oil industry from collapsing within the state.

Gasoline prices averaged $4.67 a gallon this week, about $1.45 higher than the national average. Affordability has become the central issue for Californians, with polls showing growing frustration over rising living costs.

Lawmakers can no longer ignore this reality.

The Journal highlighted a major policy shift: lawmakers passed SB 237, giving Kern County the authority to issue up to 2,000 drilling permits annually for the next decade.

The California Independent Petroleum Association (CIPA) has been clear that the state cannot afford to let its energy backbone collapse. Without a viable oil industry, families will face even higher fuel costs, greater financial strain, and deeper dependence on foreign oil imports.

For voters, this debate is not abstract. They see the affordability crisis every time they fill up their car, buy groceries, or pay for everyday necessities.

SB 237 is a first step, but more must be done. California’s legislature needs to reverse decades of regulatory hostility and build a balanced energy policy that protects affordability, supports local jobs, and ensures energy security.