California Assembly Bill AB2092

California 2017-2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/18
• Refer: 2/16/18

Caption

Board of Forestry and Fire Protection.

Impact

The proposal signifies a policy movement towards greater inclusivity in governance, particularly in environmental matters that have implications for public safety and ecological preservation. By elevating public presence in the board, the bill seeks to ensure that community interests and residential concerns are foregrounded in discussions typically dominated by the forestry and fire protection industries. This could lead to more balanced decisions that consider both economic objectives and environmental stewardship.

Summary

Assembly Bill 2092 aims to amend the structure of the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection by increasing the number of members representing the general public on the board from five to six. This change will adjust the total number of board members from nine to ten and is intended to enhance public representation in matters pertaining to forestry and fire protection management. The bill reflects a shift towards prioritizing input from the general public alongside industry stakeholders in the decision-making process related to forestry resources and fire safety.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding AB 2092 involves the balance of influence between industry professionals and public representatives on the board. Critics may argue that increasing public representation could hinder efficient decision-making or lead to conflicts with industry interests, while advocates stress the necessity of diverse perspectives in addressing the multifaceted challenges of forest management and fire prevention. Overall, the bill embodies a call for transparency and accountability within the board's functionality, amidst growing concerns over climate change and its impact on forest ecosystems.