Last Wednesday, then state Sen. Michael Rubio of Shafter told The Bee's editorial board that he soon would introduce legislation to reform the landmark California Environmental Quality Act.

Rubio, citing a bout with the flu, spoke via telephone instead of appearing in person with other CEQA reform supporters.

The first-term Democrat told of CEQA abuses that had stymied urban revitalization and green energy projects. He also defended his proposal to exempt projects from environmental review if they met standards established by other laws.

Critics had said Rubio's plan would set off a "race to the bottom" and harm the environment. He countered that his reforms would create a "race to the top" and speed along urban infill projects.

Two days later, Rubio announced that he was resigning to become a government relations manager for Chevron Corp., one of the state's biggest political and economic powers.

Rubio said he made the move for family reasons; specifically that he "wasn't having any quality time with his family." We'll take his word for that -- although his new job also is in Sacramento and Chevron likely will expect its new lobbyist to work long hours.

Saying it bluntly: the timing of Rubio's departure stinks, and there is reason to doubt his claim to The Bee's John Ellis that he submitted his "résumé just like anybody else would off the street."

Throughout his time in office, Rubio worked on legislation -- including a 2011 bill pertaining to oil drilling -- that would benefit Chevron. Moreover, he already had decided to take the job before talking to The Bee's editorial board.

Rubio should have thought hard about his family obligations before running to represent the citizens of the 16th District. Taxpayers in Fresno, Kern, Kings and Tulare counties now are on the hook for the cost of a special election to select his replacement.

The Los Angeles Times reported that the state Fair Political Practices Commission is reviewing Rubio's new position to see if the move violates conflict-of-interest laws.

We suggest that investigators dig deeply.

Rubio demonstrated last week that he is well versed in the art of deception.