New campaign urges lawmakers to extend program through 2045, securing billions for infrastructure and good-paying union jobs
Rebuild SoCal Partnership announced the launch of “Cap-and-Trade for Transit Jobs,” a comprehensive advocacy initiative aimed at securing the extension of California’s Cap-and-Trade program through 2045. With the current program set to expire in 2030, the campaign will focus on protecting billions in dedicated funding for transit infrastructure projects that create good-paying union jobs while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
“California’s Cap-and-Trade program represents one of the most successful models for aligning climate action with economic development,” said Jon Switalski, Executive Director of Rebuild SoCal Partnership. “Over the past decade, this program has generated billions in revenue while creating tens of thousands of construction jobs. Extending it through 2045 is essential for completing transformative projects like High-Speed Rail and supporting the local transit systems that millions of Californians depend on daily.”
A recent Environmental Defense Fund report found that construction represents the largest source of job creation from California’s Cap-and-Trade investments, supporting over 70,000 jobs statewide. Every $1 billion in transit spending generates up to 50,000 jobs while delivering cleaner air, reduced traffic, and a tangible lasting legacy for future generations. Governor Newsom’s 2025-26 budget proposal guarantees at least $1 billion annually in Cap-and-Trade revenues for High-Speed Rail through 2045, providing the stability needed to attract private investment and leverage federal matching funds.
“The bottom line is simple: Cap-and-Trade works,” Switalski emphasized. “It cuts pollution, creates jobs, and delivers the infrastructure Californians need. Programs rarely align environmental goals with economic development this effectively. Extending the program through 2045 gives California the certainty needed to plan strategically and maintain our competitive advantage.”
Cap-and-Trade provides rare stability in government funding with a dedicated revenue stream that grows with the problem it’s designed to solve. As emissions increase, more revenue flows to projects that reduce pollution. The program has proven its effectiveness by investing billions in projects that clean California’s air while creating career opportunities for working families.
Stay up to date on our latest initiatives at rebuildsocal.org
