Senate Bill 237 could significantly expand oil production in Kern County by allowing up to 2,000 new oil rigs per year, bringing renewed certainty to a permitting process that has stalled in recent years. Supporters say the bill would restore thousands of oil-related jobs, stabilize fuel prices, and reinforce Kern County’s role as California’s leading oil producer. The legislation also includes $7 million in community benefits funding for local services such as child protective services, fire protection, Valley fever research, and airport expansion. While industry leaders and county advocates praise the bill’s economic potential, final approval now rests with Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Read full article: https://www.kget.com/news/local-news/new-bill-could-pump-life-into-kern-countys-oil-industry/