In The News: “Stakes are high for California’s signature climate program” — Los Angeles Times

Clean and Prosperous California Executive Director Clayton Munnings was quoted in the Los Angeles Times as lawmakers negotiated whether to extend the state’s cap-and-trade program beyond its 2030 expiration. Governor Gavin Newsom is pushing to reauthorize the program through 2045, a move most experts say is essential for California to reach carbon neutrality. However, critics argue significant reforms are needed “to address concerns about how cap-and-trade is run and where the money is spent.”

 “The evidence shows that California’s cap-and-trade program has worked well so far to significantly reduce emissions and invest in communities,” Munnings said. However, the present moment represents an opportunity for state leadership to build a foundation for the next 20 years. He urged them to finalize cap-and-trade’s extension and ensure that its allowances are cut enough to align with the state’s ambitious climate targets.

“Such a program,” he added, “would be emulated by climate leaders around the world.”

Read the article from the Los Angeles Times: https://www.latimes.com/environment/story/2025-08-14/california-cap-and-trade-crossroads-climate-change.