Release Facts on Gasoline Sales

We have the right to know the extent of harm from gasoline in our communities.

Gas stations are a major pollution source linked to environmental and health impacts in surrounding neighborhoods. The more gasoline sold, the bigger the risks of cancer and other harms to those living nearby. People have the right to know the extent of the risks of living, working or going to school near a particular gas station.

Gas stations are cities' gateway to gasoline. Gasoline is the biggest source of greenhouse gas emissions, and a major cause of air pollution. Cities need to know how much gasoline is sold within their borders each year to assess and better target investments in gasoline reduction strategies such as EV charging infrastructure, public transit, e-bikes and e-scooters, EV ride & drives, and education campaigns.

Eighteen organizations have requested in writing that the California Energy Commission (CEC) release the gasoline sales volume data it collects from gas stations annually. The gasoline industry is fighting to keep these records hidden, claiming they include trade secrets. The CEC has so far sided with the gasoline industry and withheld the data.

California courts have found that a public interest in disclosure of data can outweigh the interest in nondisclosure of a trade secret.

The CEC should release this important data in the public interest.