It was hailed as a landmark decision for the environment: The California Air Resources Board voted in August to require that all new automobiles and light trucks sold in the state be zero emission by 2035.
The move, aimed at tackling climate change, has been cheered by many. Just not mom-and-pop gas station owners.
In interviews with The Times, independent gas station owners said the state mandate will expedite the demise of their businesses. And they make up a significant part of the state's fueling infrastructure: A little more than 5,000 such stations are scattered across California, according to National Association of Convenience Stores data.
