Problem Solvers Caucus Steps Up to Lower Gas Prices
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 2, 2024
CONTACT: Nick Mirman
nick@cmpublicaffairs.com
SACRAMENTO - Today, the California Problem Solvers Caucus released statements in response to the State Assembly passing ABx2-9 (Petrie-Norris), which pushes the state to adopt a new fuel blend with increased ethanol levels (E15). This higher-ethanol fuel blend could reduce gas prices by 20 cents per gallon, saving California drivers an estimated $2.7 billion per year.
In an August letter to the Legislature's budget committees, the caucus requested funds to finalize and expedite CARB's rule-making process in order to bring the cheaper fuel blend to market faster. This language was amended into ABx2-9 after caucus members promoted E15 during the Assembly's informational hearings in September.
“E15 is a common sense solution to address the high gas prices working Californians have to cope with every day," said Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria (D-Fresno). "Rural Californians like those I represent in the San Joaquin Valley have to drive long distances on a regular basis, and cannot bear continuing increases in the price of gas. I am proud to support ABx2-9, and look forward to the Air Resources Board completing their analysis of this important fuel opportunity.”
“As Co-Chair of the Problem Solver Caucus I want to acknowledge the importance of having an expansive portfolio of energy solutions that will ensure prices are kept low for our constituents," said PSC Co-Chair Assemblyman Carlos Villapudua (D-Stockton). "Our caucus is committed to improving on our energy resources and E15 fuels will help alleviate the high cost of gasoline while also helping reduce carbon emissions.”
"This legislation represents a step towards a cleaner, more affordable future for California drivers,” said Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego). “By exploring the adoption of E15 fuel, we're not only addressing environmental concerns but also providing much-needed financial relief at the pump. The bipartisan effort behind ABx2-9 demonstrates our commitment to solutions that can benefit both our economy and our environment.”
“Providing common-sense alternatives to address our gasoline pricing problems has been on the forefront of the issues being tackled by the Problem Solvers Caucus this year," said Assemblywoman Laurie Davies (R-Laguna Niguel). "I am pleased ABx2-9 included our suggestions and work into the measure. By incorporating E15 into our transportation fuel models, we provide reasonable reforms to help low-income commuters reduce their pain at the pump.”
“Families are struggling with inflation and an affordability crisis," said Assemblyman Tom Lackey (R-Palmdale). "California leaders should explore all energy options including the usage of E15 ethanol gas to lower costs for residents to go to work and take their kids to school."
"This special session may not be something we needed to have, but it still gave us an opportunity to engage on the fuel supply issue more broadly," said PSC Co-Chair Assemblyman Heath Flora (R-Ripon). "The effort to allow E15 in California is bipartisan, and the only thing holding it back is regulatory bureaucracy; we should already be doing this. It’s time for California to join the rest of the country.”
The California Problem Solvers Caucus was established in 2020, and seeks to find solutions reached through collaboration, not division; mutual respect, not partisan bickering; and will work in service to the people of California. The caucus is currently made up of 21 Assemblymembers and Senators, both Democrat and Republican.
Problem Solvers are principled, pragmatic and committed to putting people over party. Learn more at www.caproblemsolversfoundation.com.
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