Lower Costs, Fair Prices & Strong Businesses
Californians are paying too much to live, work, and run a business. From rising utility bills to the highest gas prices in the nation, everyday costs are squeezing families, veterans, commuters, and employers of every size.
My approach is straightforward: lower everyday costs, restore accountability, and make government work faster and fairer for everyone.
Utility Cost Relief
- Hold utility companies accountable for unjustified rate hikes
- Work collaboratively with utility providers to make energy more affordable
- Expand community-owned and locally controlled energy programs
- Encourage manufacturers to make solar and battery storage more affordable and accessible
- Reduce excessive fees and surcharges added to utility bills
- Improve grid reliability and prevent unnecessary power shutoffs
Lower Gas & Fuel Prices
California drivers pay the highest gas prices in the nation. While global markets play a role, state taxes, regulations, and supply constraints add unnecessary costs at the pump. California fuel is often refined here and sold for less in other states than it is at home—something that makes no business or consumer sense.
- Temporarily suspend or reduce the gas tax during extreme price spikes
- Work with fuel producers and refiners to reduce costs without sacrificing environmental standards
- Audit fuel regulations to eliminate unnecessary cost drivers
- Allow temporary regulatory relief during fuel price emergencies
- Increase transparency and competition in fuel pricing
- Provide relief for small businesses, contractors, truckers, and delivery drivers
- Expand consumer choice through incentives, not mandates
Supporting Businesses of All Sizes — With Accountability
California’s economy depends on both small businesses and large employers. Small businesses are the heart of our communities, while large employers anchor jobs, supply chains, and investment. Both deserve fair rules, predictable policies, and accountability.
- Lower operating and utility costs for employers
- Reduce red tape and speed up permits and approvals
- Support independent contractors and skilled trades
- Tie incentives to job creation and keeping jobs in California
- Enforce labor and environmental standards fairly and transparently
Veterans & Business Ownership
Veterans bring leadership, discipline, and real-world experience to California’s economy. Veteran-owned businesses create jobs and strengthen communities, but too many face high costs and unnecessary barriers.
- Priority assistance and faster access to existing business support programs
- Reduced fees and operating costs for veteran-owned businesses
- Expanded access to capital, training, and mentorship
- Strong enforcement of existing veteran contracting and procurement preferences
Priority Access — Fair, Limited, and Transparent
Priority access should not be automatic or political. It should be limited, clearly defined, and based on service, need, or clear public benefit. Priority access will speed up government processes—without bypassing safety, labor, or environmental standards.
- Veterans, in recognition of their service
- Small businesses when delays threaten jobs or local economies
- Disaster-affected individuals and businesses
- Projects that deliver clear public benefit, such as lowering energy costs or improving infrastructure
Fair rules. Equal standards. Faster service. A more affordable California.