Newsom calls special session on energy affordability ahead of elections

California Governor Gavin Newsom convened a special session for lawmakers on Saturday to address energy affordability after Assembly Democrats rejected his proposal for new oil refinery regulations. This decision comes as the state approaches the November 5 election, highlighting the urgency of addressing rising living costs. Newsom's proposal aimed to require petroleum refiners to maintain stable inventories to prevent fuel shortages and price spikes, a move that has faced pushback from industry stakeholders and some lawmakers. The special session marks the second time in two years that Newsom has focused on the oil industry's economic impact, reflecting ongoing tensions within the Democratic Party regarding climate change initiatives and the need to lower fuel prices. Lawmakers were initially scheduled to leave Sacramento for four months, complicating the timeline for addressing these critical issues. In recent discussions, Newsom's office sought to collaborate with both the Senate and Assembly on legislation to stabilize fuel supplies. However, the late introduction of his proposal raised concerns among Assembly Democrats, who were wary of potential repercussions for the upcoming elections. The governor's previous attempt to penalize oil companies for excessive profits had also met resistance, leading to a shift in strategy towards demanding greater transparency from the industry. As the special session unfolds, it remains uncertain when hearings will occur or if the proposed bills will pass. The outcome could significantly impact California's energy policies and the political landscape as the state grapples with high living costs and the complexities of energy regulation.