Newsom Signs Law to Combat California Gas Price Spikes
The new legislation mandates increased refinery oversight and inventory to stabilize fuel costs amid accusations of political maneuvering.
- Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill X2-1, aimed at reducing seasonal gas price surges by increasing state oversight of refinery operations.
- The law requires oil refineries to maintain a minimum fuel reserve to mitigate price spikes during maintenance periods.
- Newsom accused the oil industry of colluding with former President Trump to manipulate gas prices for political gain, a claim the industry denies.
- The Western States Petroleum Association criticized the legislation as divisive, arguing it could raise prices by limiting supply.
- The bill passed swiftly in a special legislative session, with some lawmakers expressing concerns about potential cost increases for consumers.