Air pollution: gasoline: one stop shop permitting.

A coalition of California state senators has proposed comprehensive changes to gasoline regulation and refinery permitting processes through legislation that would establish alternative fuel specifications and streamline environmental approvals. The bill creates a coordinated "one stop shop" system for refineries to obtain air quality, water quality, and hazardous waste permits while requiring the Energy Commission to explore adopting broader western regional fuel standards.

The measure directs the Energy Commission to evaluate potential gasoline specifications that could apply across western states, with a report due to the Governor and Legislature by July 1, 2026. The State Air Resources Board must then implement recommended changes by January 2027. The bill temporarily suspends certain fuel volatility requirements from June 2025 through October 2030, requiring the board to achieve equivalent emission reductions through other programs during this period.

Under the new permitting framework, refineries can request consolidated processing of environmental permits through a single application. Participating facilities must commit to continued operations and maintaining affordable fuel prices. The system includes mandatory labor agreements, safety requirements, and public engagement provisions. Civil penalties collected through enforcement would be split between local air quality districts for community improvements and programs supporting refinery worker safety.

The legislation requires standardized analysis of regulations affecting fuel prices, with independent review by state fiscal offices. All provisions would sunset on January 1, 2031, allowing for assessment of the program's effectiveness. The measure includes no direct state appropriations, with administrative costs covered through permit fees paid by participating refineries.