Amidst looming refinery closures and record-high gas prices, a proposed deal signals a shift in strategy for Sacramento.

California Democrats are reportedly considering a significant financial payout to Valero to prevent the closure of a key San Francisco-area refinery, a move that starkly contrasts with years of stringent regulations that have contributed to refinery shutdowns.

According to a Bloomberg report, sources indicate lawmakers are discussing a payment of $80 million to $200 million to Valero to keep its Benicia refinery operational beyond its scheduled April 2026 closure date. The funds would be earmarked for routine maintenance, a major cost for refiners.

This deliberation comes as concerns mount over already-high gas prices, with two other major refineries, Phillips 66 an

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