California's 'Money-Saving' Tire Ban Just Got Worse, Including Threatening Reporters California’s latest “money-saving” mandate just banned most of the tires you actually buy, and then the bureaucrats tried to lean on the reporter who said so. The California Energy Commission unanimously approved new replacement tire efficiency standards this week. Starting in 2029 (with stricter rules in 2033), tires sold in the state for passenger cars and light trucks must meet low rolling-resistance targets. The official line: drivers will save nearly $1 billion a year in fuel and electricity costs, emissions will drop the equivalent of 400,000 cars, and the extra cost is only $1.50–$6.50 per tire. Here’s the part they soft-pedal: industry estimates say this could wipe out roughly 70% of the tires currently on the market. The cheap, durable options working families actually buy get phased out. Goodyear and others warn the real price jump will be far higher than the state’s rosy math. Upfront costs hit immediately. Projected gas savings arrive later, if at all, and only if you keep the same driving habits and the tires last as claimed. California already has the highest gas prices in the country and some of the most expensive everything else. Now unelected commissioners are deciding which tires you’re allowed to put on your car in the name of “affordability.” And when a KCRA reporter accurately reported the 70% figure and the industry pushback, a CEC spokesperson emailed her urging a “different tone.” Not disputing the number. Just asking her to soft-pedal the coverage. This is the pattern: sell heavy regulation as a gift to consumers, downplay the costs and lost choice, then pressure anyone who points out the trade-offs. Californians keep getting told these rules will save them money. Somehow their wallets never notice.