BY JOE PATTERSON SPECIAL TO THE SACRAMENTO BEE JANUARY 06, 2024 6:00 AM.
This piece was originally published by The Sacramento Bee.
Living in Northern California, I’m constantly reminded of the delicate dance between environmental aspirations and economic realities. The California Air Resources Board’s ambitious 2045 carbon neutrality goal raises valid concerns about potential ripples impacting crucial industries and the wallets of everyday Californians.
From governors Arnold Schwarzenegger to Gavin Newsom, the state’s long-held desire to address environmental hazards is noble. But it is crucial to ensure policy doesn’t unintentionally disrupt lives and drain pockets; regulations that add costs are far more likely to have unintended consequences than incentives that produce the same end result.
Only a strong economy can underwrite what is needed to transition to a healthier environment. There needs to be a better balancing of California’s environmental goals with our economic realities.
As the state strives for a greener future, we cannot ignore the potential financial strain on families already wrestling with affordability challenges. Targeting key industries with punitive measures could lead to job losses and stagnant economic growth. A more constructive approach would be to incentivize innovation and reward companies that embrace sustainable practices. This fosters California’s leadership in responsible resource management while keeping in mind the economic resilience of our citizens in adapting to change.
California’s shifting regulations and increasing scrutiny on specific companies signal a changing landscape. Our vital industries have no choice but to adapt and innovate proactively to thrive in this evolving environment. California’s innovative spirit demands solutions that don’t burden its citizens disproportionately. There are dangerous downsides to hasty legislative and regulatory decisions. What is needed is a smooth, well-planned energy transition that safeguards households already grappling with high costs of living.
This careful energy transition is crucial to safeguard our economy while leading the charge in responsible environmental stewardship. This strategic stance prioritizes the financial security of our state while reaffirming our unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. California is home to the brightest and smartest minds in the world, and I am confident we can innovate solutions that serve both goals.
However, achieving this balance requires more than just policy tweaks. It demands an open dialogue, and a willingness to collaborate between industries, government and communities. We need to foster innovation hubs, invest in infrastructure and equip our workforce with the skills to thrive in a decarbonized future. Gas and energy prices are a primary concern for countless Californians.
This is not just about environmental goals, it’s about building a California where prosperity and sustainability coexist, where the economic well-being of individuals and families is woven into the fabric of our green ambitions.
Newsom’s aggressive climate agenda, coupled with the state’s ambitious fossil fuel reduction plans, paints a bold vision that is unlike that of any other state. We must strike a responsible balance between sustainability and resource management, never losing sight of the industries that form the backbone of our state’s economic health. These same industries often provide the lifeblood of high-quality jobs in underserved areas, making the sustainability of these industries ever more critical.
As we navigate the complexities of decarbonizing vital industries, let’s remember that California must first create an environment where its people can thrive. We cannot burden families with skyrocketing energy costs that impede their ability to care for their loved ones.
California can achieve greatness on multiple fronts. We can and will foster collaboration, champion innovation and deliver a reliable, clean energy future that ensures the well-being of all fellow Californians. This is not a zero-sum game; it’s an opportunity to redefine the Californian story, where environmental responsibility and economic prosperity move forward together, paving the way for a brighter future for generations to come.
Assemblyman Joe Patterson represents California’s 5th Assembly District. He formerly served as the mayor of Rocklin.
