Overview

• Lawmakers approved SB 237, which streamlines approvals for expanding oil drilling in Kern County.
• Supporters describe the legislation as a needed step to bolster supply, citing two pending refinery closures, high operating costs, and long-term declines in in‑state production.
• Opponents say fast-tracked permits and curtailed CEQA review would not lower pump prices and could increase local pollution risks.
• California now imports about 64% of its crude, up from roughly 6% in 1982, a shift advocates link to higher costs and greater exposure to global markets.
• Commentary highlights other price drivers such as high state gas taxes and Low Carbon Fuel Standard costs, while experts dispute how quickly gasoline demand is falling.