Bill > SB613

This bill aims to reduce methane emissions from imported petroleum and natural gas by requiring state agencies to prioritize strategies that lower methane emissions where feasible and cost-effective. Recognizing that methane is a potent greenhouse gas with 27-30 times the global warming impact of carbon dioxide over 100 years, the bill specifically targets out-of-state natural gas sources, which account for about 90% of California's natural gas use and represent a significant source of methane emissions. The bill requires the State Air Resources Board to encourage natural gas procurement that shifts towards certified low-methane emissions sources, using a Measure, Monitor, Report, and Verify (MMRV) framework to systematically track and verify emissions data. The legislation authorizes state agencies to apply approved protocols to existing emission reduction programs and use various sources and standards to measure methane emissions. Importantly, the bill does not mandate new utility procurement or promote expanded fossil fuel use, but instead supports California's broader goals of transitioning to clean energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The bill aligns with recent EPA regulations and the state's carbon neutrality objectives, seeking to incentivize best practices in methane emissions reduction both within California and in out-of-state natural gas production regions.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB613