Climate Politics
State Climate Laws Targeted Around US as Iran War Spikes Gas Prices
Experts say the laws have little impact on gasoline costs and are the cheapest way to meet rising electricity demand.
Drivers wait to refuel vehicles at a gas station in Sacramento, California.
Photographer: David Paul Morris/BloombergAs countries and consumers embrace renewable energy in the wake of the Iran war, skyrocketing gasoline prices in the US are fueling efforts to weaken state climate laws.
Renewable energy mandates to reduce greenhouse gas emissions generally have little impact on US gas prices, according to experts. But the growing pain at the pump has charged debates in California, Massachusetts, Michigan and New York over whether climate action is affordable as households face rising costs for electricity, groceries and housing.