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Energy, Climate and AI Regulation Take Center Stage in Sacramento

As the clock ticks down on this last day of the state legislative session, a significant deal on climate and energy programs comes together at the 11th hour.
The Valero Benicia Refinery in Benicia, on May 8, 2025, processes up to 170,000 barrels of oil a day, making gasoline, diesel, and other fuels for California. Valero plans to shut down the Benicia refinery by April 2026, citing high costs and strict environmental rules. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)

As the clock ticks down on this last day of the state legislative session, a significant deal on climate and energy programs comes together at the 11th hour.

The package includes an extension of the cap-and-trade program, which raises billions of dollars for environmentally friendly projects and eases the way for California to participate in a regional clean energy market.

Plus, Scott Marisa and Guy discuss the latest attempt at regulating artificial intelligence that’s now on its way to the governor for approval.

Read more: California Lawmakers Reach Last-Minute Deals on Climate, Energy

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