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Breaking News: Lawmakers Pass Newsom's Controversial Oil/Gas Plan Amid Safety and Price Concerns
The California State Senate has voted 23-9 to advance Governor Newsom's controversial plan, granting the state's energy commission new authority to regulate fuel storage and refinery maintenance.
Seven Democrats and one Republican abstained from the vote.
Passes 23-9.
A few Democrats abstain.
Bill now heads back to the Assembly for final vote.
— Ashley Zavala (@ZavalaA)
6:25 PM • Oct 11, 2024
Newsom’s Argument: The governor claims that the proposal is crucial for preventing sudden spikes in gas prices, aiming to protect consumers from market volatility. This was a statement released within the hour:
Every Californian is impacted when Big Oil fleeces us at the gas pump & that’s exactly why the Legislature is making progress on the special session plan to stop price spikes.
With the Senate passage secured, we’re closer to holding Big Oil accountable.
— California Governor (@CAgovernor)
7:20 PM • Oct 11, 2024
Critics' Concerns: Opponents—including labor groups, the energy industry (Chevron), and governors of neighboring states (Arizona/Nevada)—have strongly pushed back. They warn that the plan could lead to permanent price increases and compromise worker safety by allowing an inexperienced, unelected commission to regulate unplanned refinery maintenance.
This was a letter released last night from more unions, pushing back on the measure.
Safety Risks Highlighted During Legislative Session:
Throughout the governor's special legislative session, critics voiced concerns that the proposal could endanger workers.
They argue that an unelected body with no refinery expertise might not be equipped to make decisions on maintenance, potentially putting safety at risk.
What’s Next?: The legislation heads back to the Assembly for a final vote on Monday.
San Diego Unified in Crisis: Superintendent Terminated Amid Sexual Misconduct Scandal
There’s no question that public schools are in crisis. Our children deserve better leadership, and nowhere is that more evident than in San Diego. You may have been following the unfolding saga at San Diego Unified, where the Superintendent was recently terminated amid a sexual misconduct scandal.
In her first on-camera interview since the scandal erupted, Board President Shana Hazan was supposed to discuss what went wrong. Yet, instead of clarity, the situation is raising even more serious questions about leadership and accountability within the district.
Quick Catch-Up
Allegations Uncovered years ago (2021): An internal investigation found serious allegations against former Superintendent Lamont Jackson. He allegedly engaged in sexual relationships with multiple employees, promoting them afterward. He also reportedly attempted advances toward others who rejected him, leading several employees to come forward with reports of predatory behavior.
Dr. Lamont Jackson
No Administrative Leave: Despite the gravity of these allegations, Jackson was never placed on paid administrative leave—a step commonly recommended during workplace harassment investigations. Instead, he continued in his role throughout the process.
Termination "Without Cause": The board ultimately decided to terminate Jackson "without cause." in September. This decision allowed him to receive a severance package of over $260,000, covering six months.
Questions About Transparency: Although district officials have repeatedly emphasized a commitment to transparency, they have refused to release the full report from the independent investigation. This decision has raised serious concerns about the district's handling of the case and its dedication to accountability.
Alarming Allegations Against Interim Superintendent
The situation took another turn when troubling accusations surfaced about interim Superintendent Fabiola Bagula, who replaced Jackson.
The same women who accused Jackson of sexual harassment also allege that Bagula made racist, anti-white remarks in front of staff.
They also claim Bagula knew about Jackson’s behavior and even shielded him while harassing and bullying those who rejected his advances.
The San Diego Unified School Board stands behind Bagula, according to NBC San Diego.
“She’s not perfect. Nobody is perfect. She’s the first person to apologize if she makes a mistake. And as it relates to these claims, she has accepted responsibility. She has been accountable. I am so confident in her leadership.”
What’s Next
The district is facing mounting pressure to release the full investigation report and clarify how it will address these serious allegations.
The community will be watching closely to see if San Diego Unified can truly uphold its promise of transparency and create a safe, accountable environment for all employees.
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