Oppose AB-1243: Reject costly polluter mandates

Subject: Oppose AB-1243: Address Complexity, Financial Impact, and Legal Challenges Now

My name is [Full Name], and I am writing as a concerned constituent to express my opposition to AB-1243, the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act of 2025. While the bill aims to address climate change, its approach raises several significant concerns. Firstly, the bill introduces a complex administrative burden on the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) by requiring a comprehensive climate cost study every five years. This could divert resources from other critical environmental initiatives and lead to bureaucratic inefficiencies, as outlined in Sections 71371.3 and 71373.2. Moreover, the financial implications of imposing cost recovery demands on fossil fuel companies could result in higher energy prices for consumers, affecting the broader economy and potentially leading to job losses in the sector. This is particularly concerning given the economic challenges already facing many Californians. The bill also presents legal and jurisdictional challenges, as entities can contest their designation as responsible parties, potentially leading to prolonged legal disputes and delays in implementation. The retroactive liability for emissions dating back to 1990, as mentioned in Sections 71371.5 and 71373.6, may face significant legal hurdles. Additionally, the urgency clause in Section 4 could limit public discourse and thorough legislative scrutiny, leading to rushed and ineffective execution. The potential for overlapping regulations with existing state laws further complicates compliance for businesses. In conclusion, while addressing climate change is crucial, AB-1243's approach may lead to unintended negative consequences. I urge you to reconsider this bill and explore more practical and effective solutions. Thank you for considering my concerns. Sincerely,