Fresno City Council screenshot

Fresno City Council President Analisa Perea led a resolution Thursday addressing concerns about proposed changes to California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard.

The resolution, which passed unanimously, formally asks the California Air Resources Board to postpone its Friday public hearing to allow for further analysis of the economic impact on working families.

California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS), initially adopted in 2010, calls for a 20% reduction in the carbon intensity of fuels sold in California by 2030.

If CARB’s proposal is approved, it will increase the degree that fuel producers must offset their petroleum-based fuels with low-carbon alternatives.

The proposals would change the carbon intensity reduction target for 2025 from 5% to 9%. Reductions can be achieved through the use of cleaner fuels or through carbon credits.

Perea, along with Council Vice President Mike Karbassi, introduced the resolution. They are concerned about how potentially higher fuel prices would hurt Fresno residents.

Perea said that Fresno families are already stretched thin.

“This resolution is about taking a stand for transparency and making sure every voice in Fresno is heard, which is why I respectfully request that CARB delay their vote until the LCFS changes are analyzed and the financial impacts are disclosed,” Perea said.

According to a news release from Perea’s office, the proposed amendments could result in an increase of anywhere from 47 cents to 85 cents per gallon.

Karbassi said that Chinese industry continues to be the global leader in greenhouse gas emissions, producing more than double the U.S.

“Unlike California, they show little sign of improving their practices and embracing renewable and carbon free energy sources, Karbassi said. “Our solution cannot be making California’s middle class pay for the irresponsibly of another nation. It’s unfair and harmful to our local economies. I urge CARB to take the time to evaluate the likely financial burdens of their updated LCFS before moving forward.”