Another year has come and gone, bringing with it another legislative session full of highs and lows. Just like a sine graph, the Union of Concerned Scientists continues to move forward, pushing for positive change despite any setbacks that may arise.
### Bidirectional EVs Could Be the New Standard
Electric vehicles (EVs) have the potential to not only revolutionize transportation but also serve as a clean energy solution. The recent passage of SB 59 by Senator Nancy Skinner is a significant step towards requiring EVs to have the ability to export their power. This feature could allow EV drivers to use their vehicle batteries to power essential appliances during emergencies, homes during power outages, or even contribute to the grid during peak demand periods. Governor Newsom’s signing of the bill marks the beginning of a journey towards making bidirectional capabilities a standard feature in all new EVs. The California Energy Commission now has the authority to establish this requirement, and it will be crucial for advocates to make a compelling case for its implementation.
### Special session takes on big oil and wins
The transition to clean transportation and away from fossil fuels is gaining momentum, with California taking significant steps to regulate the oil industry’s practices. The passage of AB2X-1 during a special session spearheaded by Governor Newsom represents a decisive move to address the manipulation of gasoline prices by refineries. By requiring minimum gasoline storage at refineries, the state aims to curb market manipulation tactics that have led to price spikes and windfall profits for big oil companies. These policies are essential to ensure a fair and equitable transition away from fossil fuels.
### A step towards getting water rights right
California’s water rights system has long been criticized for its inequity and inefficiency. The passing of AB 460 is a crucial step towards rectifying this broken system by increasing fines on entities that exceed their allocated water usage. This measure aims to promote a more sustainable and fair distribution of water resources in the state, setting the stage for further reforms in the future.
### EV battery end of life bill life ended on Governor’s desk
As California continues to witness a surge in EV adoption, the need to address end-of-life battery disposal becomes increasingly urgent. Despite Governor Newsom’s veto of SB 615, which sought to mandate the repurposing or recycling of EV batteries, advocates remain committed to finding sustainable solutions for managing retired batteries. The roadmap laid out by the bill will guide future efforts to ensure the environmentally responsible disposal of EV batteries.
### Clean cars not 4 all
Efforts to replace older, high-emission vehicles with cleaner alternatives received a setback with the veto of AB 2401 by Governor Newsom. The bill aimed to target state incentives towards replacing older vehicles, reducing emissions and improving air quality. While the veto raised budgetary concerns, advocates remain determined to find alternative ways to achieve the bill’s objectives and secure funding for clean vehicle incentives.
### Onward
As we reflect on the successes and setbacks of the past legislative session, we look ahead to the future with optimism and determination. Celebrating victories, supporting implementation efforts, and advocating for new policy solutions will be our focus as we continue to address pressing environmental and social challenges. The journey may have its ups and downs, but with perseverance and dedication, we can pave the way for a more sustainable and equitable future for California and beyond.
