Monday, the California Legislature will vote on whether to extend the state’s cap-and-trade program, due to expire in 2020, until 2030.
The package being voted on also includes a measure to reduce air pollution.
Governor Jerry Brown’s climate initiative is largely backed by industry, which has led to divided support among environmental groups, with some arguing that the plan is a practical way to fight climate change and others criticizing the measure for pandering to oil interests.
There’s also opposition from fiscal conservatives, who see increased regulations and taxes as a money-grab on behalf of Brown’s bullet train.
On the morning ahead of the vote, we discuss the environmental and fiscal impacts of the proposed cap-and-trade extension.
Guests:
Chris Busch, research director at San Francisco-based think tank Energy Innovation
Jon Coupal, President of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association (HJTA)