Steve Hilton vows to fire California energy bosses behind tire regulations

Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton promised Thursday to wipe out the agency behind California’s controversial new tire rules aimed at lowering emissions — blasting what he called an bloated “bureaucracy” that is only driving up the cost of living.“When I am in office, we are going to have affordable, reliable energy in California that is as green as we can possibly make it.That’s what’s going to happen,” Hilton said at a Sacramento press conference Tuesday in front of steps away from the California Energy Commission.“Instead of what they’re doing now, which is fake green energy that’s gouging every California family and business.”The rules, approved Monday by the commission, will phase out replacement tires that fail to meet the state’s new energy-efficiency standards.The commission and Democrats claim the more efficient, lower-resistance tires will translate to cars using less gas or electricity from better mileage, therefore saving consumers money.

The rules target “rolling resistance,” which refers to how much energy it takes to keep a tire moving down the road.Hilton, however, echoed critics of the ban who say it’ll increase costs by wiping out most of the tire market.Tire industry critics claim actual price increases for tires could reach several hundred dollars as the industry scrambles to replace roughly 70% of replacement tires currently on the market by 2029, when the rules go into effect.According to the Tire Industry Association, average tire prices could increase from $81 to as much as $157.

For a full set of four tires, the difference could exceed $300 per vehicle.Hilton said his first step would be targeted at one individual: Energy Commissioner Nancy Skinner, who reportedly was a driving force behind the tire rules.Skinner is listed as the agency board’s engineer/scientist member.“We are going to fire the tyrant Nancy Skinner!” Hilton said.

“Nancy Skinner is a political hack.She has no business...