Will Nevada Drivers Pay for California’s Energy Gamble

Last week, the Las Vegas Review-Journal published an editorial titled “Will Nevada drivers pay price for California’s folly?” warning that California’s green energy policies could soon hit Nevada drivers in the wallet.

The piece noted that California Democrats are starting to face the repercussions of their aggressive shift away from fossil fuels. It mentioned that last October, the administration criticized the oil industry for “raking in unprecedented profits” and “screwing you for years and years” while passing a bill that requires refiners to store more gasoline. The article also referenced California’s approach to capping industry profits.

The editorial quoted Assemblymember Mike A. Gipson, who told Moneywise, “They have said that they cannot do business in the state of California. The regulatory agencies have imposed on the refiners of California very stringent regulation that makes it very difficult for them to remain in the state of California.”

The editorial also quoted California Democratic political consultant Andrew Acosta, who told Politico, “The reality is, if those refineries close and we have increased gas prices, it’s going to be a problem for everybody. Not just Gavin Newsom, but every Democrat running for office.”

The Las Vegas Review-Journal editorial board warned its readers and state leaders that Nevada gets nearly 90 percent of its gasoline from California refineries. “At this point, there is no realistic alternative. That means Silver State drivers are defenseless against gasoline price spikes caused by California’s foolish energy policies.”

The editorial board went on to write: “Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo has previously implored his California counterpart to consider the potential cross-border damage. With Gov. Newsom scrambling to avoid the uncomfortable reality of the green agenda, now might be a good time for him to reiterate those concerns.”