After decades of implementing forward-looking policies to combat climate change, the future of California’s environmental agenda faces serious challenges as the new administration assumes leadership. A period of uncertainty lies ahead as many wonder how the state will respond to the Trump administration’s denial and criticism of anti-global warming initiatives. Governor Brown, however, has indicated his intention to continue the state’s policies, including pursuing the target of carbon emission reduction by 40 percent below 1999 levels by 2030.

State officials fear that the new administration could significantly affect climate change policies in multiple ways. Funds for the state’s enormous research initiatives could be undercut.  The continued enforcement of significant legislation, such as the Clean Air Act, Clean Power Plan and emissions reduction protocols, in addition to the Paris Climate Agreement, remains tentative as pressure grows to cut back environmental regulations elsewhere. The discrepancy between California and other state’s adherence to these policies leaves California in the unwelcomed position of losing manufacturing businesses that relocate to other states or watching companies forego the opportunity to expand their ventures in California. California businesses have criticized the state for enacting stringent legislation that limits the emissions of greenhouses gases despite the severe impact of such regulation on financial growth in the state.

In response to imminent pressure from the incoming Administration and others, the state has vowed to pursue its environmental agenda with popular support for its policies. In a July survey, 69 percent of California residents supported the law requiring the state to cut emissions to previous levels. Many supporters of regulation also emphasize that clean air policies in California have contributed to the growth of jobs and new industries in the state. Moreover, California has also positioned itself as an international leader in energy and climate change matters. The Governor has led the Under 2 MOU Initiative with the backing of state, local and regional governments in 33 countries with the goal of implementing policies to maintain global warming to less than 2 degrees Celsius.  Nevertheless, while the state pushes forward with its agenda, many recognize that without the cooperation of other states and the federal government, it will be difficult to stand alone in pursuing aggressive policies to fight climate change.

Contact Shane Coons at 949-333-0900 or visit his website at www.ShaneCoonsLaw.com to find out more about his practice.