Los Angeles County approves ban on oil and gas extraction
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The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved an ordinance to ban oil and gas drilling and pumping throughout the city.
This move aims to phase out production over the next 20 years to address historical injustices and health risks faced by local residents. The council intends to close approximately 600 active oil wells and 1,200 inactive ones.
Officials state that communities of color and frontline residents have suffered from public safety hazards and health risks caused by nearby drilling operations. The new rules target activities near sensitive locations such as schools, hospitals, and residential centers. The measure supports a goal to reach carbon neutrality by 2035. It follows a 2022 order that a court overturned in September 2024 because the city lacked the authority to regulate against state rules.
The current plan awaits final approval from Mayor Karen Bass.
