Updated
Updated · eenews.net · Jun 12
California Lawmakers Press Newsom to Restore $690 Million Transit Aid as $1 Billion in Cuts Loom
Updated
Updated · eenews.net · Jun 12

California Lawmakers Press Newsom to Restore $690 Million Transit Aid as $1 Billion in Cuts Loom

3 articles · Updated · eenews.net · Jun 12

Summary

  • $690 million in emergency transit funding became the focus of a Capitol rally, where four Democratic lawmakers urged Gov. Gavin Newsom to fully restore money he had agreed to earmark in 2023.
  • More than $1 billion in potential transit cuts drove the push: Newsom's updated budget omitted the emergency aid, and lawmakers also want $600 million in carbon-auction transit revenue protected.
  • Two dozen-plus lawmakers had already sent Newsom and legislative leaders a letter Friday seeking restoration of the emergency funds, escalating pressure ahead of budget decisions.
  • Last month's California Air Resources Board move to weaken the cap-and-invest program to lower oil refiner costs threatens that revenue stream, widening the fight from one budget line to transit's broader funding base.

Insights

With gas tax and climate revenues falling, is California's public transit system driving towards a fiscal cliff?
Why is California cutting transit funds while creating a multi-billion dollar incentive for industrial polluters?
Can California still hit its 2030 climate targets after overhauling its signature emissions program?