(The Center Square) – Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs submitted a joint letter with Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo on Tuesday, Sept. 10, urging California Gov. Gavin Newsom to reconsider legislation that could increase gas prices for Arizonans and Nevadans.
ABX2-1 and similar legislation would authorize the California Energy Commission to impose requirements for refiners in the state to maintain minimum levels of inventory and refined transportation fuel meeting California specifications. It would also impose a civil penalty on anyone who does not comply with the regulations adopted in which case the Commission would be able to seek any form of remedial relief to enforce compliance.
According to a report from the Commission, the bill could “artificially create shortages in downstream markets,” prompting Hobbs and Lombardo’s concern over gas and transportation costs in Arizona and Nevada.
“The people of Nevada and Arizona should not have to foot the bill for California’s misguided policies — especially when it comes to higher gas prices,” Lombardo said. “Lowering fuel costs is a bipartisan issue, and I’m grateful to partner with Governor Hobbs as we fight back against policies that will raise prices and cause regional economic disruption.”