SACRAMENTO — Legislation by State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) andAssemblymember Al Muratsuchi (Torrance) to block the Trump Administration from expanding federal oil drilling off the California coast are headed to the Governor. The identical bills ensure that new pipelines and other new infrastructure needed to support federal oil development cannot be built in California waters. In addition, existing pipelines cannot be expanded without a six-month public notice requirement and public vote of the State Lands Commission at a time when Californians overwhelmingly oppose offshore drilling.
Last January, the Trump Administration proposed a massive expansion in federal offshore oil drilling, including off the Pacific and Atlantic coasts. SB 834 and AB 1775 block the expansion in California waters by prohibiting the State Lands Commission from approving any new leases for pipelines, piers, wharves, or other infrastructure needed to support new federal oil and gas development in the three-mile area off the coast that is controlled by the state.
In addition, under the legislation, the public would have an opportunity to weigh in on any expansions to existing pipelines. Any modifications to pipelines or piers that result in new oil production in federal waters would require a six-month public notice period for review and comment before going to the State Lands Commission for a vote. The State Lands Commission is comprised of the Lieutenant Governor, the Controller, and the director of the California Department of Finance.
“From the 1969 Santa Barbara spill to the 2015 Refugio spill, our community knows all too well the devastation oil spills can bring to our local economy, environment, and marine life,” said Senator Jackson. “With this legislation, California is sending a strong and unequivocal message that we will not let the Trump Administration destroy our precious coastal community for economic gain.”
“I am thrilled that the Legislature passed AB 1775 tonight,” said Assemblymember Muratsuchi. “We are fighting the Trump Administration to protect the South Bay and California’s beautiful coast from the threat of offshore oil drilling and rigs. I urge Governor Brown to continue his strong environmental leadership by signing my bill.”
California’s coastal economy produces approximately $44.5 billion in GDP each year and employs almost half a million people in the state.
The bills now head to the Governor’s desk for his consideration. He has until September 30 to take action on the measures. He can sign both or either for the policy to be enacted.
Jackson represents the 19th Senate District, which includes all of Santa Barbara County and western Ventura County.