#United States #California #Los Angeles #Consumer Watchdog #Carbon Pipelines

Tensions Rise Over Carbon Pipeline Legislation

In a notable clash of interests, two oil and gas lobbyists are adamantly opposing the inclusion of critical safety measures in pending carbon pipeline legislation in California. According to reports from Consumer Watchdog, the proposed bills, AB 881 and SB 614, do not contain language that would create a necessary buffer zone between carbon pipelines and nearby communities. This lack of precautionary measures has sparked concern among environmental advocates and community leaders alike.

Consumer Advocate Liza Tucker emphasized the risks involved, citing incidents from the past. "When a carbon pipeline ruptures, it can release deadly asphyxiants, posing serious risks to nearby residents," Tucker stated. She referred to the unfortunate situation in Satartia, Mississippi, where a carbon dioxide pipeline rupture led to serious health issues for residents, including convulsions and unconsciousness. Given this history, the demand for stringent safety provisions is more critical than ever.

The bills in question aim to lift a moratorium on carbon pipeline projects that has been in place since 2022. With approximately 25 carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects awaiting approval, the stakes are high. However, the current form of the legislation raises questions about the adequacy of safety measures being put forth. Critics argue that without a legally mandated safety buffer, communities are left vulnerable to the potentially devastating impacts of pipeline failures.

In addition to the buffer zone, advocates are calling for other safety measures such as odorants to make leaks detectable. The necessity for such features is underscored by the operations of lobbyists like Virgil Welch of Caliber Strategies and Theo Pahos of Kemper/Pahos, both representing major oil entities. Welch, for instance, has significant ties to the California Air Resources Board, echoing concerns about the revolving door between regulatory bodies and private interests.

The bills are currently awaiting votes in the legislature, but without the required amendments, they may proceed without needed safety measures. Environmental advocates are urging Assembly member Cottie Petrie-Norris and Senator Henry Stern to resist pressure from the oil and gas lobbyists and prioritize the health and safety of California residents.

Tucker also criticized the financial influence that lobbying firms have over California’s legislative processes, indicating that hundreds of thousands of dollars have been spent in efforts to push through these carbon capture proposals. "These lobbying efforts jeopardize the wellbeing of our communities for the benefit of a few large corporations," she concluded.

The carbon capture technology itself is already under scrutiny for its effectiveness, often capturing a minimal fraction of the carbon it aims to collect and relying on fossil fuel energy for operation. This raises further questions regarding the viability of CCS as a solution to climate change, let alone its implications for public safety.

As the deadline approaches for amending the legislation, the outcome remains uncertain. Lawmakers are at a critical juncture where they must balance industry pressures with the imperative of safeguarding public health. The demand for clear, enforceable safety standards in carbon capture initiatives is both a public interest and a moral obligation, one that requires immediate attention in the ongoing discussions regarding carbon pipelines in California.