A senior California Energy Commission official has urged Gov. Gavin Newsom to exempt Kern County’s oil permitting program from the California Environmental Quality Act, citing stalled production and growing risks to the state’s fuel supply. Vice Chairman Siva Gunda said ongoing litigation has reduced local oil output, increased reliance on foreign imports, and contributed to higher costs and market volatility. The recommendation would prioritize drilling in established oil fields while keeping fracking bans and protections for sensitive areas in place. If adopted, the move would mark a significant shift in California’s energy policy as officials balance climate goals with fuel affordability and reliability.

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