.png)
California Initiatives
Our Team helped pass 17 critical environmental bills in California
SB867- Addressing the state's Changed Climate
Senate Bill 867 proposes a comprehensive bond measure to address multiple climate-related challenges in California. If approved, the bill would authorize $15.5 billion in state general obligation bonds to fund projects focused on wildfire and forest resilience, drought and flood resilience, coastal resilience, and clean energy infrastructure. The bill outlines investments across various sectors, including water conservation, forest health, biodiversity protection, and wildfire mitigation, aiming to increase the state's climate adaptability and reduce the impacts of extreme weather events.
​
The bond funds would also be directed toward community projects, particularly benefiting disadvantaged communities and vulnerable populations, through grants and investments in regional water management, urban greening, and wildfire risk reduction. By providing critical resources for long-term resilience, SB 867 supports California’s environmental and climate goals, ensuring a more sustainable future while addressing the immediate needs of public health and safety.
AB2599- Regulation of Water Services to Ensure Public Safety
Assembly Bill 2599 amends regulations related to public beaches and water service in California. The bill allows health officers to use microbiological contamination test results from other parties when testing waters after untreated sewage releases to ensure public safety. It also reinforces immediate closures of public beach waters following such releases until the water meets safety standards.
​
In addition, AB 2599 clarifies the Attorney General's ability to restore real property or money acquired unlawfully under the Water Shutoff Protection Act, ensuring that public water systems do not gain any new authorities beyond what is provided by law.
​
The bond funds would also be directed toward community projects, particularly benefiting disadvantaged communities and vulnerable populations, through grants and investments in regional water management, urban greening, and wildfire risk reduction. By providing critical resources for long-term resilience, SB 867 supports California’s environmental and climate goals, ensuring a more sustainable future while addressing the immediate needs of public health and safety.
AB3233- Imposing Restrictions on Oil and Gas Operations
Assembly Bill 3233 empowers local governments in California to impose restrictions or prohibitions on oil and gas operations within their jurisdictions. This bill enables cities and counties to pass ordinances that can limit or ban oil and gas development, even if those operations are otherwise approved by the State Oil and Gas Supervisor. These restrictions may focus on the methods used, the location of the operations, and the potential environmental or public health impacts, allowing local entities to make decisions that align with the specific needs of their communities.
Additionally, AB 3233 requires that if oil and gas operations are limited or prohibited by a local government, operators must comply with existing rules regarding well abandonment, decommissioning, and related environmental safety measures. This legislation emphasizes protecting public health and the environment by granting local authorities more control over oil and gas activities.