CONTACT: Veda Banerjee, 415-999-8332, veda@envirovoters.org
SACRAMENTO, CA — California Environmental Voters (EnviroVoters) issued the following statement in response to Governor Newsom calling for a special legislative session December 5th to impose a windfall tax on California oil companies.
Last week, Newsom directed the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to transition to winter-blend gasoline, a decision that would increase oil supply and drop gas prices almost immediately. However, prices have continued to skyrocket as crude oil prices have decreased.
The announcement comes alongside the California Energy Commission’s letter to Big Oil demanding an explanation for the divergence between prices in California compared to the national average. The windfall tax would ensure that excess oil profits go back to Californians impacted by high gas prices in the form of rebates or refunds.
Statement from Mike Young, Political and Organizing Director, EnviroVoters:
“Every Californian needs to stand together to hold our government accountable for aggressive action now. Our lives and future depend on our government choosing people over corporate profits. We call on our state Legislature to do the right thing and enact a windfall profits tax. Big Oil is a dangerous, exploitive neighbor hurting all Californians, especially our most vulnerable low-income communities.
Science tells us that 100 energy corporations are responsible for 71 percent of global industrial carbon emissions, so no serious conversation about climate action can leave out corporate disclosures and reductions. Transitioning to clean, renewable energy is necessary to achieve the progress that is scientifically necessary by 2030.”
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ABOUT CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL VOTERS
California Environmental Voters (formerly the California League of Conservation Voters) believes the climate crisis is here and this moment requires transformative change. California has the policy solutions to stop climate change but lacks the political will to do it at the rate and scale that’s necessary. EnviroVoters exists to build the political power to solve the climate crisis, advance justice, and create a roadmap for global action. We organize voters, elect and train candidates, and hold lawmakers accountable for bold policy change. We won’t stop until we have resilient, healthy, thriving communities, and a democracy and economy that is just and sustainable for all. Join us at www.envirovoters.org and on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. See more press releases.
