The legislative session ended in 2015 with a disappointment for environmentalists as the bill targeting new levels for greenhouse gas emissions for 2030 and 2050 was shelved to be revisited this year. SB 32 would toughen requirements set by the previous bill, AB 32, which called for a reduction in the state’s greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by the year 2020. That goal requires emissions to fall by six percent between 2013 and 2020, which political experts anticipate is feasible. SB 32 proposed the more ambitious goal for emissions reduction of 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030, and 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. This legislation was intended to codify an Executive Order issued in 2005 for reductions in pollution levels.
The proposal was heavily supported by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). CARB maintained that the legislation was both possible and necessary to combat the devastating effects of climate change. The proponents of the legislation, including its drafter, state Senator Fran Pavley, contend that the state is moving in the general direction of requiring private industry to adopt novel and renewable technologies and this trend will continue.
However, certain business groups in the private sector voiced their opposition to this legislation and its effects on the costs of doing business in California. Various builder coalitions submitted reports warning that SB 32 would result in a significant increase in housing costs. Similarly, oil company representatives cautioned that passage of this legislation would result in mandatory driving restrictions in California.
Despite the failure to pass SB 32 during this legislative term, environmentalists achieved several other successes in the battle against climate change. California’s continued position as a leader in combatting climate change is evidenced by its numerous and extensive regulatory schemes despite producing only about one percent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Contact Shane Coons at 949-333-0900 or visit his website at www.ShaneCoonsLaw.com to find out more about the practice.