Expansion of California gas plant that leaked methane in 2015 draws criticism

Critics say the decision comes at a high cost to both the climate and human health

California regulators voted Thursday to increase the capacity of a Los Angeles natural gas storage field, where a 2015 blowout caused the nation's largest-ever methane leak and forced thousands from their homes.

Locals, environmental advocates, and lawmakers have called for the closure of the facility, which has been approved to increase more than 20% in capacity.