Merced Times

Today, Assemblyman Joe Patterson (R-Rocklin) began his second term in the California State Assembly by introducing legislation aimed at addressing cost of living increases. The proposed bill, AB 34, seeks to increase transparency and accountability for decisions made by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). This legislation would require any new regulation proposed by CARB to be analyzed by the non-partisan Legislative Analyst Office before adoption. The analysis must assess the potential cost impact on Californians.

Assemblyman Patterson expressed concern over rising utility and gas prices, attributing them to decisions made by "an unelected group of Sacramento insiders." He stated, "The majority of Californians agree that it is far too expensive to live in this state."

Recent amendments to CARB's Low Carbon Fuel Standard are expected to raise gasoline prices significantly in the coming years. AB 34 aims to provide legislative oversight and ensure that such regulations are evaluated for their economic impact.

Patterson emphasized his commitment to reducing living costs across California, stating, "We cannot allow unelected and unaccountable bureaucrats to continue to drive up costs for Californians without legislative oversight."

Representing the 5th Assembly District, Patterson serves communities including Roseville, Rocklin, Lincoln, Granite Bay, Auburn, North Auburn, Loomis, Meadow Vista, Newcastle, Penryn, El Dorado Hills, Cameron Park, Diamond Springs, Placerville, Shingle Springs among others.