My friends know that I’m a skeptic on global warming. I don’t think that there’s proof today that anthropogenic (man-cause) global warming is a factor in the higher temperatures of recent years. Additionally, temperatures have fallen the last couple years. Am I right? On this only time will tell.
However, the California Air Resources Board has taken the theory of global warming and made it into a fact, and it’s likely to harm the Bronze Golden State’s economy. CARB has imposed a mandate that the state cut carbon dioxide emissions by 15% over the next 13 years. The regulations needed to cause this drop will be written over the next two years.
CARB believes that this will have “net economic benefits through 2020.” I haven’t a clue where they get that idea. I expect that this will give yet another reason for businesses to leave California for friendlier environs. Of course, if population drops enough California will meet its carbon dioxide goal.
All taxes are passed on to customers—that’s basic economics. The regulatory burden that is imposed on California businesses will be passed on, and we’re in the middle of a recession. But given the general dysfunction of California’s government that shouldn’t come as a surprise.