Lawmakers Criticize California Regulators, Say Consumers Are Paying the Price for Policy Decisions

California’s Air Resources Board is meeting days after the election to consider proposals that could raise gas prices by as much as 47 cents next year.

Gas prices are displayed at a gas station in San Rafael, Calif., on April 12, 2023. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

California state lawmakers, including more than two dozen Republicans, challenged the state’s Air Resources Board in an Oct. 15 letter to Chair Liane Randolph, requesting details about how proposed regulations could see the price of gas increase if they are ultimately approved and take effect in January.

“Families are already struggling with high gas prices, and they shouldn’t be left in the dark about the financial impact of new policies,” Sen. Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh said in a press release about the lawmaker concerns. “Californians deserve transparency and the chance to voice their concerns. The state’s priority must be to shield families from rising costs, not quietly advancing policies that make it harder for them to make ends meet.”