Latest news with #WesternStatesPetroleumAssociation
Business Wire
07-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
California Elected Officials Asked to Take Immediate Action Vowing to Reverse Affordability Crisis
SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With elected officials in Sacramento recognizing that Californians are struggling with a cost-of-living crisis and demanding action to make the state more affordable, a new campaign from the Western States Petroleum Association is asking leaders to commit to opposing any new policies that would increase Californians' energy bills. 'It's time for lawmakers to show they're serious about stopping unnecessary cost increases,' said WSPA President and CEO Catherine Reheis-Boyd. 'It's time for lawmakers to show they're serious about stopping unnecessary cost increases,' said WSPA President and CEO Catherine Reheis-Boyd. 'That's why we've created the California Energy Affordability Promise. Californians deserve a signed pledge from their leaders to vote against anything that makes life more expensive.' The Energy Affordability Promise asks lawmakers to side with consumers and block any more government-imposed costs from taxes, fees and other policies. Californians can visit to stand up against higher prices by sending a letter to their legislators and local officials that says: 'Right now, nearly 30% of the per-gallon price of gasoline is due to taxes and fees, according to the California Energy Commission. 1 I urge you to oppose any policy that would increase that percentage. Today, over 2.2 million Californians are an average of $821 behind on their utility bills. 2 In the last ten years, the California Public Utilities Commission has approved rate increases nearly three times higher than inflation. 3 Please oppose policies that would increase this burden on families.' 'This promise is about energy affordability, but we hope it's the start of a broader conversation about state policies that drive up the cost of other necessities like housing and food. When our leaders' words about affordability are reflected in their votes, we'll know that Californians are being heard,' said Reheis-Boyd. The campaign will integrate with existing WSPA advocacy efforts including ' Facts Per Gallon,' ' Levanta Tu Voz ' and ' Better Way,' and will involve advertising, local coalition outreach, tabling events, and direct constituent engagement, allowing Californians to review the evidence and ask their elected representatives to sign the California Energy Affordability Promise. Sources: 1 Estimated Gasoline Price Breakdown and Margins – California Energy Commission 2 The Public Advocates Office at the California Public Utilities Commission – 2024 Electric Rates Report 3 U.S. Energy Information Administration; California Department of Tax and Fee Administration; Low Carbon Fuel Standard based on OPIS methodology; Cap-and-Trade based on most recent Auction Settlement Price for California Carbon Allowances. All information was accessed in January 2025. About WSPA Founded in 1907, the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) is the oldest petroleum trade association in the United States. WSPA represents a dynamic membership of companies at the forefront of petroleum exploration, production, refining, and transportation, as well as leaders in renewable energy and carbon management innovations. Serving Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, WSPA is committed to providing reliable and affordable energy access for all Americans. We advocate for policies that balance social, economic, and environmental considerations. Our approach is inclusive and data-driven, as we educate government leaders, the media, and the public. WSPA strives to ensure informed policy decisions that will secure a vibrant and sustainable energy future for all.
Yahoo
29-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
WSPA Welcomes Jim Stanley as Director of Media Relations
SACRAMENTO, Calif., April 29, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) is pleased to announce that Jim Stanley has joined the organization as Director of Media Relations. In this role, Stanley will lead WSPA's media engagement and messaging strategy across all five states the association serves—Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. His work will focus on communicating the importance of an affordable and reliable fuel supply while supporting the workers and communities who make it possible. "I'm honored to join WSPA to help share the story of the industry that keeps the West running," said Stanley. "Whether it's powering job sites, getting goods to market or helping families get where they need to go, reliable fuel matters. The people who depend on that fuel and those who produce and deliver it deserve a seat at the table, and I look forward to ensuring their voices are heard in the debates that shape our energy future." Stanley brings nearly 15 years of experience in high-level political communications and public affairs. He most recently served as Communications Director for the California State Assembly Republican Caucus, where he oversaw all external messaging and advised lawmakers on media strategy, rapid response and public policy communications. His background also includes senior roles with the National Republican Congressional Committee, where he helped lead multimillion-dollar national campaigns, and extensive experience as a strategist on issues ranging from energy and public safety to affordability and regulation. In 2024, Stanley was recognized by Capitol Weekly as one of the "Capitol's Best Press Reps." "We're excited to welcome Jim to WSPA as we continue advocating for balanced, practical energy policies throughout the West," said WSPA President and CEO Catherine Reheis-Boyd. "Jim brings a strong track record of delivering effective messaging and navigating complex public policy issues. His voice will be critical in helping the public and policymakers understand the importance of affordable, reliable energy and the dedicated people behind it." Founded in 1907, the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) is the oldest petroleum trade association in the United States and a leader in shaping an ever-evolving energy sector. WSPA represents a dynamic membership of companies that are at the forefront of petroleum exploration, production, refining, and transportation, as well as renewable energy, carbon management solutions, and other technological innovations shaping our energy future. Serving Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, WSPA aims to ensure that Americans have reliable and affordable access to petroleum and other energy sources by supporting policies that consider social, economic, and environmental factors. View source version on Contacts Jim Stanley860.460.8775jstanley@ Sign in to access your portfolio
Business Wire
29-04-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
WSPA Welcomes Jim Stanley as Director of Media Relations
SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) is pleased to announce that Jim Stanley has joined the organization as Director of Media Relations. In this role, Stanley will lead WSPA's media engagement and messaging strategy across all five states the association serves—Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. His work will focus on communicating the importance of an affordable and reliable fuel supply while supporting the workers and communities who make it possible. 'Whether it's powering job sites, getting goods to market or helping families get where they need to go, reliable fuel matters. The people who depend on that fuel and those who produce and deliver it deserve a seat at the table.' 'I'm honored to join WSPA to help share the story of the industry that keeps the West running,' said Stanley. 'Whether it's powering job sites, getting goods to market or helping families get where they need to go, reliable fuel matters. The people who depend on that fuel and those who produce and deliver it deserve a seat at the table, and I look forward to ensuring their voices are heard in the debates that shape our energy future.' Stanley brings nearly 15 years of experience in high-level political communications and public affairs. He most recently served as Communications Director for the California State Assembly Republican Caucus, where he oversaw all external messaging and advised lawmakers on media strategy, rapid response and public policy communications. His background also includes senior roles with the National Republican Congressional Committee, where he helped lead multimillion-dollar national campaigns, and extensive experience as a strategist on issues ranging from energy and public safety to affordability and regulation. In 2024, Stanley was recognized by Capitol Weekly as one of the 'Capitol's Best Press Reps.' 'We're excited to welcome Jim to WSPA as we continue advocating for balanced, practical energy policies throughout the West,' said WSPA President and CEO Catherine Reheis-Boyd. 'Jim brings a strong track record of delivering effective messaging and navigating complex public policy issues. His voice will be critical in helping the public and policymakers understand the importance of affordable, reliable energy and the dedicated people behind it.' Founded in 1907, the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) is the oldest petroleum trade association in the United States and a leader in shaping an ever-evolving energy sector. WSPA represents a dynamic membership of companies that are at the forefront of petroleum exploration, production, refining, and transportation, as well as renewable energy, carbon management solutions, and other technological innovations shaping our energy future. Serving Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, WSPA aims to ensure that Americans have reliable and affordable access to petroleum and other energy sources by supporting policies that consider social, economic, and environmental factors.
Yahoo
31-01-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
California legislation would allow victims to sue oil and gas companies over disasters
Two California Democratic lawmakers have introduced legislation that could allow people and insurers to sue oil and gas companies for damages sparked by climate change-related disasters such as wildfires and mudslides. The Affordable Insurance and Climate Recovery Act, authored by state Sens. Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco and Sasha Renée Pérez, D-Pasadena, accuses fossil fuel companies of misleading the public about the impact of their products on climate change. The bill comes during the very early recovery stages of the devastating wildfires in Southern California earlier this month which have killed at least 28 people and burned more than 35,000 acres. If the measure passes, California would be the first state in the U.S. to allow for such legal action, Wiener told reporters at a news conference Monday in Sacramento. "We are all paying for these disasters, but there is one stakeholder that is not paying: the fossil fuel industry, which makes the product that is fueling the climate change," said Wiener, flanked by consumer protection and environmental group advocates. "The fossil fuel industry has endless resources, its profits just continue to spiral and spiral into the stratosphere. And we are left holding the bag in terms of paying for these disasters." The source: 'Hotter, drier, and more flammable': Scientists say climate change fueled LA fires Due to the spike in climate-driven natural disasters, seven of the top 12 insurance companies in California have paused or limited new business in the last year and a half, despite rate increases approved or pending with the state's insurance department. Under the proposed measure, people insurance businesses impacted by natural disasters may be able to recoup losses from fossil fuel corporations. Among the insurance companies would be those under California's FAIR Plan, the state insurance option for those who can't get private insurance and are considered by some as a last resort. Wiener said fossil fuel companies need to be a part of the solution for home and business owners who lose their properties. "By forcing the fossil fuel companies driving the climate crisis to pay their fair share, we can help stabilize our insurance market and make the victims of climate disasters whole," Wiener added in a statement announcing the bill. Pérez pointed to the devastating impact of the wildfires, including the Eaton Fire, which burned more than 14,000 acres alone and destroyed more than 9,000 structures in her district. "The reality is that climate change is here, and the fossil fuel industry has known this for decades," Pérez said in a statement. "Now, communities like mine are paying the price, and it's time for Big Oil to take responsibility." Amid the tragedy: 'What America should look like:' loss in the Altadena fires, and a hard road to recovery The suit already has its detractors. The Western States Petroleum Association, which represents oil and gas companies in five states, said it will oppose it. In a statement, president and CEO Catherine Reheis-Boyd said state lawmakers are using the wildfires to "scapegoat" the industry. The state's economy heavily depends on oil and gas, even as California looks to reduce its carbon footprint, she said. "We need real solutions to help victims in the wake of this tragedy, not theatrics,' Reheis-Boyd said. "Voters are tired of this approach." California State Sen. Roger Niello, R-Roseville, the vice chair of the Senate's Insurance Committee, told reporters at Monday's news conference that he takes exception to the bill. "This furthers the false narrative that this is all about climate change. It is of course much more complicated than that," said Niello, noting he believes the state's Democratic leaders underfund forest management projects statewide and Los Angeles leaders cut funds from the fire department's budget. "Do those issues have anything to do with the conflagration that we've seen in Southern California? I think so," Niello said. "So will Senator Wiener and Perez include in their bill the ability to sue those entities for their role in this, too?" Niello asked. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Calif. lawmakers want oil, gas companies to pay for natural disasters
CBS News
27-01-2025
- Business
- CBS News
California fire victims could recover damages from oil companies under proposed law
SACRAMENTO — A newly proposed California state law would create a new pathway for victims of wildfires and insurance companies to sue oil companies over climate change. Democratic State Senator Scott Weiner introduced the bill, directly linking the wildfires to climate change caused by oil companies, as part of the statewide response to the Los Angeles-area wildfires. "Absolutely catastrophic wildfires happening in the middle of winter," Weiner said. "For insurance companies, they're going to have to, if this bill passes, they're going to have to take a very hard look at seeking compensation from the oil companies." Republican State Senator Roger Niello is opposed to the bill. "It will be an invitation for lawsuits," Niello said. "This furthers the narrative, the false narrative that this is all about climate change. It is of course much more complicated than that." Niello said forest management and cuts to fire departments should also be considered for their roles in California wildfire disasters. Western States Petroleum Association CEO Catherine Reheis-Boyd issued a statement that said: "The announcement of today's proposal is the latest installment of an ongoing effort to scapegoat our industry — and the thousands of hardworking women and men who keep California running." Jamie Court with Consumer Watchdog said the bill would create a new payer in the aftermath of wildfire disaster: oil companies. "It's probably going to go all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court," Court said. "It's no different than tobacco companies. Tobacco companies hid the dangers of tobacco and they were ultimately held liable for billions of dollars in health care costs. It's the same theory." As rebuilding in Southern California begins, this proposed law would have oil companies pay part of the price.
