A legislative proposal co-sponsored by California Senator Melissa Hurtado aims to deliver long-term economic stability to Kern County by authorizing up to 2,000 new oil drilling permits annually over the next ten years. The measure is expected to stimulate job creation and bolster local revenues during a period marked by regulatory uncertainty in the energy sector.
Hurtado underscored the significance of consistent permitting, noting that recent restrictions have undermined financial predictability for residents. “It’s gonna provide economic stability for the residents of Kern County in a time where we haven’t had that stability because of a lack of permitting,” she stated.
Although the bill was not originally designed exclusively for Kern County, its final form places the region at the center, integrating comprehensive environmental impact assessments as a core requirement. These evaluations are intended to ensure responsible development practices while supporting energy production.
Representative Shannon Grove from the 12th District pointed out that the legislation includes 88 specific mitigation strategies aimed at preserving air and water quality. Some of these initiatives extend to communities affected by environmental challenges, even in zones not directly adjacent to oil operations.
The senator emphasized that the framework achieves a measured approach—supporting California’s demand for dependable and cost-effective fuel while safeguarding public health and local ecosystems.
“There was balance to the negotiations and ensuring that we were providing the affordable, reliable fuel supply that Californians need, but at the same time, ensuring that the community of Kern is protected,” Hurtado explained.
In addition to the regulatory framework, the legislator secured $5 million in targeted funding for Kern County. This includes $2 million dedicated to child protection services to combat neglect and abuse, another $2 million allocated for Valley fever screening programs, and $1 million set aside for infrastructure improvements at the local airport.
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Kern County oil drilling bill promises economic stability and environmental safeguards
, co-authored by Valley Senator Melissa Hurtado, is set to bring significant economic benefits to Kern County by allowing up to 2,000 new oil drilling permits each year for the next decade. n nHurtado emphasized the importance of the bill, stating, “It ‘s gonna provide economic stability for the residents of Kern County in a time where we haven ‘t had that stability because of a lack of permitting.” n nThe bill, while initially not solely focused on Kern County, ultimately centers on the region, incorporating major components such as environmental impact reports (EIRs). n nSenator Shannon Grove of the 12th District highlighted the environmental safeguards included in the bill, saying, “There are 88 mitigation measures, like clean air, clean water, water projects, even in impacted areas that aren ‘t even around oil industries.” n nHurtado added that the bill ensures a balance between providing a reliable fuel supply for Californians and protecting the Kern community. n n”There was balance to the negotiations and ensuring that we were providing the affordable, reliable fuel supply that Californians need, but at the same time, ensuring that the community of Kern is protected,” she said. n nBeyond the bill, Hurtado secured additional funding to support Kern County families and communities. n nThis includes $2 million for protection services to safeguard children from neglect and abuse, $2 million for Valley fever screening, and $1 million for airport expansion.