The Trump administration has started a formal review of California's coastal management program in an effort to increase crude oil deliveries from the state and counter policies favoring renewable energy sources.
The review focuses on the California Coastal Commission, an independent body established in 1972 that holds authority over development along the shoreline and can influence federal projects under a 1972 national law. Environmental advocates worry the process could limit the commission's role in decisions affecting beaches and marine areas.
Federal steps already taken include support for new offshore oil leases in California waters and assistance to a Texas company in restarting an older pipeline idled after a 2015 spill that affected 150 miles of coastline. Officials have also advanced plans for fracking at a platform nine miles off Ventura County.
Deborah A. Sivas, a Stanford Law School professor, stated that the moves reflect a broader push to favor fossil fuels over renewables, adding that federal authorities aim to direct state actions on energy matters.
California currently generates nearly half its electricity from solar and wind resources, according to state energy data, and has pursued lawsuits against federal actions that favor oil over offshore wind expansion. The state has maintained a ban on new offshore leases following the 1969 Santa Barbara spill.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced the review in May, pointing to the commission's objections to expanded rocket launches at Vandenberg Space Force Base and listing priorities such as oil production and pipeline work. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is conducting the evaluation, which has no announced completion date.
In a recent unanimous vote, the commission opposed fracking at a 45-year-old platform off Ventura County, where the operator DCOR projects output could rise from 1,100 to 4,000 barrels per day. Commissioner Ray Jackson noted that potential gains do not justify the environmental risks to the coast and wildlife.
The company is considering an appeal to the commerce secretary. Experts note that removing a state's review authority would mark a first under the coastal management system and could affect similar programs in more than 30 other states.
This report is based on coverage by ABC7 Los Angeles: https://abc7.com/post/trump-administration-ratchets-fight-get-more-oil-flowing-california/19784691/