San Diego City Wire

Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones has criticized the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for expanding the state's Low Carbon Fuel Standards, a move he claims will increase gas prices by at least 65 cents per gallon. According to Jones, this decision was made without public consent and is an example of "blatant price gouging" by Governor Newsom's administration.

Jones stated, "The Air Resources Board’s 65-cent gas price hike is a direct assault on hardworking Californians. This unelected group of wealthy bureaucrats, handpicked and directed by Governor Newsom, is shamelessly increasing gas prices so Californians are forced into electric vehicles against their will." He also noted that the regulation was passed immediately after the election in hopes that it would go unnoticed.

In response to the regulation, a statewide petition circulated by members of the Senate Republican Caucus gathered nearly 13,000 signatures within a week. Despite public opposition and calls for transparency, CARB unanimously approved the regulation earlier today.

The board consists of political appointees selected by the governor and plays a crucial role in implementing Newsom's plan to transition all California vehicles to electric by 2035. Recently, Newsom urged CARB to intensify efforts as California struggles to meet these targets.

Jones has also expressed his concerns through an op-ed in The San Diego Union-Tribune where he discusses what he perceives as Newsom's strategy to raise gas prices and compel residents toward electric vehicles.