A massive CARB budget shortfall is currently shaking the foundation of California’s environmental enforcement. Recently, we have discussed the ongoing issues surrounding the California Air Resources Board. Now, the situation appears dire due to significant financial deficits. Consequently, this financial crisis might actually cause some effective change within the state. Warning signs regarding this CARB budget shortfall were already visible back in late August.
During that time, the agency began shifting its strategies significantly. For example, they announced they would start conducting enforcement via email. As a result, the California Air Resources Board could cease to exist in its current form. Therefore, we must look at the feasibility of their continued operations.
Can Enforcement Continue Without Funding?
There is no feasible way for the agency to enforce its mandates during this CARB budget shortfall. Currently, they are trying to push forward with new clean truck rules. However, even their own courts are beginning to push back. Surprisingly, liberal judges are now telling the agency they are going too far. Consequently, I do not see how they will continue their current path.
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If the California Air Resources Board shuts down, other agencies will feel the impact. For instance, the Bureau of Automotive Repair would likely face changes as well. This would affect the state of California generally. Furthermore, there are specific legislative routes that could force this shutdown. We have discussed these rules in previous videos.
One major possibility is HR4117. This bill could move from the House to the Senate. If successful, a combined bill could shut these operations down entirely. In addition, there is the Diesel Truck Liberation Act. This act would do the exact same thing. Specifically, it would make the enforcement of emission systems illegal.
Political Fallout and Resignations
These legislative changes would cause significant shifts in the automotive landscape. However, the CARB budget shortfall itself might be the biggest undoing of the agency. Already, we have seen leadership exit the organization. Notably, the head of the California Air Resources Board has resigned. This resignation occurred after specific interventions from the Governor.
The Governor reportedly pointed out the mess the agency was causing. For example, he noted that refineries are leaving the state. As a result, California is about to have a gas apocalypse. Meanwhile, the Governor is trying to run for president. Therefore, he does not need this craziness interfering with his political ambitions.
Unfortunately for the Governor, it does not work that way. Originally, he wanted to institute these policies. He pushed for this madness. Now, he gets to reap what he sows. Overall, this political pressure combined with the CARB budget shortfall creates a perfect storm.
Feasibility of Email Enforcement
Many channels are discussing this budget deficit. They are analyzing what it means for the state. However, I question if these proposed enforcement methods are real. For instance, they claim they can do enforcement by email. I just do not know if that is feasible. Practically, are they actually going to do it?
Furthermore, right now they cannot pay their staff. If you are not paying your people, you cannot expect them to enforce rules. Some might argue that the feds did not pay air traffic control, and they still went to work. I understand that argument. However, I just do not see how it works for this agency long-term.
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