‘Stop the Energy Shutdown’ series highlights the massive job losses and higher costs Californians would see under policy proposals at the state legislature.

Without a decrease in demand, in-state production cuts will only result in more foreign oil imports. Forecasts show California’s oil demand will remain stable for decades.

Higher costs for consumers, lost jobs for working families, reduced revenues and expensive litigation for the city – all for ‘buffer zones’ that studies say won’t improve public health.

The Board of Supervisors is set to intervene in the permitting process for longstanding and safe energy operations, adding unnecessary red tape and killing local jobs.

Despite the claims of activists and their allies in public office, studies have failed to support a rationale for 2,500-foot setbacks or a ban on hydraulic fracturing.

Policies in the Ventura County General Plan update will lead to increased oil imports, driving carbon emissions far higher than what would occur under local production.

Unnecessary regulatory changes would force ongoing, safe oil production operations to re-apply for existing permits in front of the Board of Supervisors, increasing costs, discouraging investments, and killing good-paying jobs.

As COVID-19 adds to the negative outlook for the region, Ventura County hasn’t backed away from policies aiming to harm an industry providing good-paying jobs and millions in tax revenues.

As COVID-19 interrupts critical global supply chains, California must recognize heavy dependence on foreign oil puts its people and businesses at risk.