California lawmakers passed several groundbreaking climate and environment bills in their recent legislative session. One notable bill requires major corporations to disclose their greenhouse gas emissions, a first-of-its-kind initiative. Other bills seek to restrict oil drilling along the coast, facilitate offshore wind projects, and protect Joshua trees. These bills now require Governor Gavin Newsom’s signature by mid-October to become law. While the legislature achieved some positive outcomes, environmental advocates urge them to think bigger and take more ambitious action in light of the ongoing climate emergency. Unfortunately, not all proposals made it through this year, such as the one to prohibit public pension funds from investing with oil companies. Additionally, the budget cut $6 billion in climate initiatives, and regulators delayed the closure of gas-fired power plants while expanding gas storage, both met with opposition from environmental groups. As celebrations of progress are tinged with frustration, advocates look to 2024 for further advancements. In Newsom’s hands, some significant climate and environment bills now await approval. They cover areas such as greenhouse gas reporting, orphan oil well prevention, protection of the coastal ecosystem, disclosure of climate-related financial risks, and centralized purchasing of offshore wind and geothermal energy. Other bills address issues like lead testing in schools, pesticide use study, energy efficiency, and banning toxic chemicals. Advocates hope Newsom signs these bills, but historically, he has vetoed some crucial measures.
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