By Bo Tefu, California Black Media

Assembly Republicans presented a plan last week with what they called “real solutions” to lower gas prices during a special legislative session called by Gov. Gavin Newsom and Assembly Democrats to pass legislation to address the high cost of gasoline prices in the state.

The Republican Caucus proposed seven bills that aim to make gas more affordable statewide. The package includes bills that exempt gas from the state’s cap-and-trade program that adds 30 cents to the cost of a gallon of gas.

Republicans also introduced a bill to suspend the state’s gas tax for one year, a bill requiring the California Energy Commission to regularly update a public dashboard comparing the state’s gas prices to national averages.

Assembly Republican leader James Gallagher (R-Yuba City) said Newsom failed to reduce the cost of gas and that the special session is an attempt to distract residents and leaders from the governor’s failure.

“While Democrats fall in line behind a scheme that Newsom’s administration says could increase gas prices, Assembly Republicans have a common-sense plan to give drivers relief,” said Gallagher.

However, Capitol insiders expect the Democratic majority to push back on the bills. They could also be vetoed by Newsom.

Despite these challenges, Daniel Villaseñor, a spokesperson for the Governor, stated that the Republican bills are a part of “Big Oil’s wish list.”

He argued that there is nothing in the proposed bills that will prevent spikes in gas prices. Newsom is focused on solutions that protect residents from getting gouged at the pump with prices that only bring profits to the oil industry and misery for consumers, Villaseñor stated.

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