SB 674 aimed to expand air quality monitoring beyond oil refineries to other facilities, requiring data retention and third-party audits.
Newsom argued that existing local air quality management programs already address these concerns, and the bill would impose costly state obligations amid a budget shortfall.
Environmental advocates criticized the veto, calling it a missed opportunity to protect communities from toxic emissions.
Key quote:
“Fenceline communities urgently need improved air monitoring.”
— Lena Gonzalez, California State Senator
Why this matters:
Enhanced air monitoring is vital for communities near refineries to ensure they are not exposed to harmful pollutants. The veto raises concerns about the state’s ability to balance public health and budget constraints.
California took some of its most aggressive steps yet to fight global warming as lawmakers passed a flurry of new climate bills late Wednesday, including a record $54 billion in climate spending.
Gov. Newsom has placed most of California under a drought emergency, which could leave communities struggling with agricultural pollution without drinking water.
