Latest news with #WesternStatesPetroleumAssociation
CBS News
24-07-2025
- Business
- CBS News
California Democrats propose relaxed emissions rules amid gas price crisis
California's affordability crisis could lead to more relaxed emissions standards, according to a plan introduced by state Democrats. State Senator Jerry McNerney of Stockton is one of a group of Democrats spearheading the proposal. "This is an emergency," McNerney said. "In times of shortage, I think people are OK with having slightly more emissions in order to keep the prices affordable for Californians." McNerney said details of the proposal are being negotiated, which could include relaxed emissions if prices rise to a certain level or if fuel storage drops too low. McNerney's emergency plan follows the announced departure and closure of several state refineries, leaving a tight supply and potential for spikes if one of the refineries left, suddenly goes off-line. He's calling on California to create an alternative fuel blend with other western states to create more supply. Ethan Elkind is the director of the UC Berkeley Center for Law, Energy, and the Environment. He says California's environmental priorities are now taking a backseat to its affordability crisis when it comes to gas. "I think it's such a reflection of how much legislators are feeling this pressure to go to their constituents and say, 'Look, we're trying to reduce prices,' " Elkind said. The Western States Petroleum Association opposes the plan, saying it doesn't address their needs for more investments in their industry. McNerney says he is hoping to get his legislation passed into law by the end of the year.
E&E News
13-06-2025
- Business
- E&E News
Business groups, unions oppose Calif. lawmakers' budget proposal to speed up corporate emissions laws
California business groups and labor unions are crying foul over a legislative budget proposal to exempt corporate emissions disclosure laws from economic and environmental reviews. What happened: The California Chamber of Commerce, the Associated General Contractors of California, the Western States Petroleum Association and other groups lodged their opposition during a state Senate subcommittee hearing Tuesday against budget language that would exempt SB 253 and SB 261 from environmental and economic reviews. The pair of laws, signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) in 2023, will require large corporations to disclose their greenhouse gas emissions and climate-related financial risks, respectively. Lawmakers are proposing to exempt the state from having to analyze their impacts under the California Environmental Quality Act and the Standardized Regulatory Impact Assessment. Advertisement The groups particularly honed in on SRIA, which requires agencies to do an analysis when a regulation is expected to have an economic impact exceeding $50 million. Jon Kendrick, a CalChamber policy advocate, pointed to a 2017 Legislative Analyst's Office report that found SRIA requirements 'have increased the consistency of agencies' analyses.'
Business Wire
07-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
California Elected Officials Asked to Take Immediate Action Vowing to Reverse Affordability Crisis
SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With elected officials in Sacramento recognizing that Californians are struggling with a cost-of-living crisis and demanding action to make the state more affordable, a new campaign from the Western States Petroleum Association is asking leaders to commit to opposing any new policies that would increase Californians' energy bills. 'It's time for lawmakers to show they're serious about stopping unnecessary cost increases,' said WSPA President and CEO Catherine Reheis-Boyd. 'It's time for lawmakers to show they're serious about stopping unnecessary cost increases,' said WSPA President and CEO Catherine Reheis-Boyd. 'That's why we've created the California Energy Affordability Promise. Californians deserve a signed pledge from their leaders to vote against anything that makes life more expensive.' The Energy Affordability Promise asks lawmakers to side with consumers and block any more government-imposed costs from taxes, fees and other policies. Californians can visit to stand up against higher prices by sending a letter to their legislators and local officials that says: 'Right now, nearly 30% of the per-gallon price of gasoline is due to taxes and fees, according to the California Energy Commission. 1 I urge you to oppose any policy that would increase that percentage. Today, over 2.2 million Californians are an average of $821 behind on their utility bills. 2 In the last ten years, the California Public Utilities Commission has approved rate increases nearly three times higher than inflation. 3 Please oppose policies that would increase this burden on families.' 'This promise is about energy affordability, but we hope it's the start of a broader conversation about state policies that drive up the cost of other necessities like housing and food. When our leaders' words about affordability are reflected in their votes, we'll know that Californians are being heard,' said Reheis-Boyd. The campaign will integrate with existing WSPA advocacy efforts including ' Facts Per Gallon,' ' Levanta Tu Voz ' and ' Better Way,' and will involve advertising, local coalition outreach, tabling events, and direct constituent engagement, allowing Californians to review the evidence and ask their elected representatives to sign the California Energy Affordability Promise. Sources: 1 Estimated Gasoline Price Breakdown and Margins – California Energy Commission 2 The Public Advocates Office at the California Public Utilities Commission – 2024 Electric Rates Report 3 U.S. Energy Information Administration; California Department of Tax and Fee Administration; Low Carbon Fuel Standard based on OPIS methodology; Cap-and-Trade based on most recent Auction Settlement Price for California Carbon Allowances. All information was accessed in January 2025. About WSPA Founded in 1907, the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) is the oldest petroleum trade association in the United States. WSPA represents a dynamic membership of companies at the forefront of petroleum exploration, production, refining, and transportation, as well as leaders in renewable energy and carbon management innovations. Serving Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, WSPA is committed to providing reliable and affordable energy access for all Americans. We advocate for policies that balance social, economic, and environmental considerations. Our approach is inclusive and data-driven, as we educate government leaders, the media, and the public. WSPA strives to ensure informed policy decisions that will secure a vibrant and sustainable energy future for all.
Yahoo
29-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
WSPA Welcomes Jim Stanley as Director of Media Relations
SACRAMENTO, Calif., April 29, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) is pleased to announce that Jim Stanley has joined the organization as Director of Media Relations. In this role, Stanley will lead WSPA's media engagement and messaging strategy across all five states the association serves—Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. His work will focus on communicating the importance of an affordable and reliable fuel supply while supporting the workers and communities who make it possible. "I'm honored to join WSPA to help share the story of the industry that keeps the West running," said Stanley. "Whether it's powering job sites, getting goods to market or helping families get where they need to go, reliable fuel matters. The people who depend on that fuel and those who produce and deliver it deserve a seat at the table, and I look forward to ensuring their voices are heard in the debates that shape our energy future." Stanley brings nearly 15 years of experience in high-level political communications and public affairs. He most recently served as Communications Director for the California State Assembly Republican Caucus, where he oversaw all external messaging and advised lawmakers on media strategy, rapid response and public policy communications. His background also includes senior roles with the National Republican Congressional Committee, where he helped lead multimillion-dollar national campaigns, and extensive experience as a strategist on issues ranging from energy and public safety to affordability and regulation. In 2024, Stanley was recognized by Capitol Weekly as one of the "Capitol's Best Press Reps." "We're excited to welcome Jim to WSPA as we continue advocating for balanced, practical energy policies throughout the West," said WSPA President and CEO Catherine Reheis-Boyd. "Jim brings a strong track record of delivering effective messaging and navigating complex public policy issues. His voice will be critical in helping the public and policymakers understand the importance of affordable, reliable energy and the dedicated people behind it." Founded in 1907, the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) is the oldest petroleum trade association in the United States and a leader in shaping an ever-evolving energy sector. WSPA represents a dynamic membership of companies that are at the forefront of petroleum exploration, production, refining, and transportation, as well as renewable energy, carbon management solutions, and other technological innovations shaping our energy future. Serving Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, WSPA aims to ensure that Americans have reliable and affordable access to petroleum and other energy sources by supporting policies that consider social, economic, and environmental factors. View source version on Contacts Jim Stanley860.460.8775jstanley@ Sign in to access your portfolio
Business Wire
29-04-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
WSPA Welcomes Jim Stanley as Director of Media Relations
SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) is pleased to announce that Jim Stanley has joined the organization as Director of Media Relations. In this role, Stanley will lead WSPA's media engagement and messaging strategy across all five states the association serves—Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. His work will focus on communicating the importance of an affordable and reliable fuel supply while supporting the workers and communities who make it possible. 'Whether it's powering job sites, getting goods to market or helping families get where they need to go, reliable fuel matters. The people who depend on that fuel and those who produce and deliver it deserve a seat at the table.' 'I'm honored to join WSPA to help share the story of the industry that keeps the West running,' said Stanley. 'Whether it's powering job sites, getting goods to market or helping families get where they need to go, reliable fuel matters. The people who depend on that fuel and those who produce and deliver it deserve a seat at the table, and I look forward to ensuring their voices are heard in the debates that shape our energy future.' Stanley brings nearly 15 years of experience in high-level political communications and public affairs. He most recently served as Communications Director for the California State Assembly Republican Caucus, where he oversaw all external messaging and advised lawmakers on media strategy, rapid response and public policy communications. His background also includes senior roles with the National Republican Congressional Committee, where he helped lead multimillion-dollar national campaigns, and extensive experience as a strategist on issues ranging from energy and public safety to affordability and regulation. In 2024, Stanley was recognized by Capitol Weekly as one of the 'Capitol's Best Press Reps.' 'We're excited to welcome Jim to WSPA as we continue advocating for balanced, practical energy policies throughout the West,' said WSPA President and CEO Catherine Reheis-Boyd. 'Jim brings a strong track record of delivering effective messaging and navigating complex public policy issues. His voice will be critical in helping the public and policymakers understand the importance of affordable, reliable energy and the dedicated people behind it.' Founded in 1907, the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) is the oldest petroleum trade association in the United States and a leader in shaping an ever-evolving energy sector. WSPA represents a dynamic membership of companies that are at the forefront of petroleum exploration, production, refining, and transportation, as well as renewable energy, carbon management solutions, and other technological innovations shaping our energy future. Serving Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, WSPA aims to ensure that Americans have reliable and affordable access to petroleum and other energy sources by supporting policies that consider social, economic, and environmental factors.
