Lawmakers introduce bill that would boost Kern oil production
Legislation that would protect Kern County’s oil permitting system from environmental-based legal challenges emerged from closed-door negotiations Wednesday to debut in the state Capitol, where it was met with hopes it will limit gasoline price increases and worries it will undermine health protections.
Concerned about gas prices, Newsom pivots to supporting more oil drilling
California Governor Gavin Newsom last year accused oil companies of “screwing” customers. But now he wants to increase oil drilling in Kern County, among other measures, to prevent a possible spike in gas prices in 2026, which happens to be an election year (although not for him because he’s term-limited). The price hike could be […]
CRC reports financial gains, new optimism as state mulls new permitting pathways
The outlook appears to be rising for the state’s biggest oil producer, as demonstrated this week in an upbeat quarterly earnings report that suggests fortunes are improving for a local industry that could be on the cusp of a rebound.
Kern County leaders back Newsom’s oil permitting proposal
New legislation would certify county’s oil and gas ordinance under state law, allowing officials to issue permits without facing legal challenges while maintaining over 100 environmental safeguards.
Proposed bill would protect Kern’s oil permitting system from CEQA lawsuits
Governor Gavin Newsom’s administration is backing a draft state bill that would shield Kern County’s oil and gas permitting system from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) lawsuits for 10 years…
Kern supes OK oil permitting measure as county prepares for court
The 13-year, $68 million effort to put Kern oil permitting in local hands is headed back to the courts after the county Board of Supervisors voted Thursday to revise a massive environmental review and a zoning ordinance covering industry activities in the region.
California Energy Commission calls for shelving plans to fine oil companies
In the wake of plans by two refineries to close down, the California Energy Commission offered a series of recommendations Friday to Gov. Gavin Newsom, aiming to help maintain a steady supply stream of gasoline to Golden State motorists.
Valero set to close Benicia refinery at the end of April 2026
Valero will be closing their refinery facility at the end of April 2026 due to high costs and strict environmental regulations in the state. This closure could impact local gas prices.
Third time’s the charm: Kern County seeks to allow oil drilling after courts overturn decision twice
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Kern County is trying to allow oil drilling in unincorporated areas of the county once more after the courts struck down the attempt for the second time.
Tax credit supporting local carbon projects survives federal budget talks
The Trump administration has canceled a $500 million grant awarded in December to help pay for clean-energy upgrades to a cement plant east of Gorman. The $891 million project would have diverted carbon dioxide emissions for burial in the valley portion of Kern County.