The Cost of California's Oil Import Dependence

California uses oil every day.

It fuels our airplanes, moves goods through our state, powers agriculture, supports emergency services, and helps manufacture thousands of products we rely on daily.

Yet today, California imports nearly 80 percent of the oil it uses.

California has oil reserves. California has skilled workers. California has the technology and expertise to produce energy right here at home.

Instead, California has become dependent on foreign oil.

That dependence comes with a cost.

Every barrel imported from overseas must travel thousands of miles before it reaches California. Those transportation costs become part of the price Californians pay.

Import dependence also makes California more vulnerable to global events beyond our control.

Wars. Trade disputes. Shipping disruptions.

Decisions made by foreign governments have no responsibility to California families or businesses.

When global markets become unstable, Californians feel it at the gas pump and throughout the economy.

Higher transportation costs.

Greater supply uncertainty.

Higher prices for consumers.

Less energy security for our state.

The reality is simple: California needs oil.

The question is whether we continue relying on foreign suppliers or produce more of the oil we use here at home under California's environmental and labor standards.

Because every time California imports more oil, Californians pay the price.