SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) today expressed deep concern following the announcement by Searles Valley Minerals (SVM) that it will reduce its workforce by approximately 300 workers at its soda ash and boric acid operations in Trona due to prolonged market, energy, and regulatory cost pressures.
“This is devastating news for the hardworking families in Trona and the surrounding communities who depend on these jobs,” said Senator Ochoa Bogh. “When a legacy employer that has supported this region for generations is forced to reduce its workforce because the cost of doing business in California has become unsustainable, that is a serious warning sign for our state.”
SVM stated that sustained global competition, particularly from lower-cost overseas producers, combined with rising operating expenses, have made continued production economically unfeasible at current staffing levels. Energy costs now account for approximately half of the company’s soda ash production expenses, with California-based operations facing significantly higher prices than competitors in other states and countries.
The company also cited ongoing regulatory compliance costs, fees, and taxes as contributing factors.
“California cannot continue to say it supports domestic manufacturing and critical mineral production while policies drive up energy prices, increase taxes, and layer on regulatory burdens that make it nearly impossible for companies to compete with China,” continued Senator Ochoa Bogh. “I will continue fighting for a pro-business climate that lowers costs, protects jobs, and ensures companies like Searles Valley Minerals can thrive right here at home.”
Searles Valley Minerals has operated in the region for more than 150 years and is one of only two companies in the United States that currently produce boron products, which were recently added to the U.S. Geological Survey’s 2025 List of Critical Minerals due to their importance to the nation’s economy and security.