Arizona Lawmakers Oppose California Gas Policy Changes

California's proposed gasoline inventory regulations have raised alarms in neighboring states, particularly Arizona and Nevada, which rely heavily on California refineries for fuel. The Western States Petroleum Association warns that these new requirements could lead to increased gasoline prices and supply shortages, negatively impacting consumers in these states. Arizona lawmakers, including State Senate President Warren Petersen and House Commerce Committee Chairman Justin Wilmeth, have urged Governor Gavin Newsom to reconsider the implications of such policies, stating they could threaten the state's economy and livelihoods. Newsom's administration argues that the intent of the regulations is to stabilize prices by ensuring sufficient fuel supplies during maintenance periods. However, critics, including Republican representatives, contend that these measures may exacerbate shortages rather than alleviate them, with potential national implications due to California's influence on fuel pricing. The ongoing debate highlights the tension between state-level energy policies and broader economic consequences for neighboring regions.