California Faces Gas Crisis as Two Refineries Closing, 20% Capacity Lost; Senate Blocks 2035 Zero-Emission Car Mandate Amid Benecia Fiscal Concerns

California is facing a potential gas price crisis as two major oil refineries, accounting for about 20% of the state's refining capacity, are expected to close within the next year. These closures are attributed to the state's stringent environmental and energy regulations, which have been criticized for disregarding economic trade-offs and consumer demand. The situation has sparked debate among lawmakers and regulators, with some pointing to the role of California's climate policies, including a mandate for all new cars sold by 2035 to be zero-emission, which the Senate recently voted to block. The impending refinery shutdowns also threaten the fiscal stability of communities such as Benecia, a Bay Area suburb historically linked to the oil industry. Public opinion remains divided on the state's aggressive moves toward electric vehicle mandates and other regulatory measures.