California Pushes Oil & Gas Firms to Stay | 2,000 New Wells Approved

California is losing oil and gas firms — refineries are closing, and companies are relocating due to strict regulations and high costs. To counter this, Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a law to fast-track 2,000 new wells per year in Kern County for the next decade.Supporters say this will stabilize the state’s petroleum supply and help prevent more price spikes at the pump. Critics warn it could clash with California’s climate goals and face major legal challenges.