Even as California’s affordability crisis creates widespread economic anxiety, some in Sacramento push energy policies that drive prices higher.

After years of attacking an industry tens of millions of Californians depend on every day, policymakers are now refocusing efforts on ensuring an adequate supply of gasoline.

California’s hostile, high-cost policy environment slashes profitability and discourages investment in fuel production. Consumers and businesses are paying the price.

At a recent oversight hearing, regulators said the state needed to support in-state oil production and refining as California faces growing fuel supply challenges.

Declining in-state crude production likely means higher fuel costs as refineries turn to more expensive marine imports – or shut down completely due to lack of supply.

State policies are the main driver for two major refineries shutting down, eliminating about 18% of our in-state fuel supply.

Contra Costa County alone has 3,000 direct and 15,000 indirect jobs related to refinery operations.

Having a blunder-prone state government manage fuel production is a terrible idea. But at least it might give Sacramento a sense of its costly policy choices.

For years, energy policy in the Golden State has been marked by politicized chaos and willful ignorance. To shift course in 2025, here are four key facts policymakers should know.