California Assembly Bill AB1749

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/19
• Failed: 2/3/20

Caption

Coastal resources: development permits.

Impact

The legislative changes presented in AB 1749 are designed to streamline the issuance process for coastal development permits by allowing local governments to act more efficiently during emergencies. This is achieved by removing certain procedural compliance requirements that typically slow down the permit issuance process. The bill also addresses improvements to existing structures and developments that do not exceed specified financial thresholds, thereby facilitating local construction and development initiatives without significant procedural delays.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1749, introduced by Assembly Member Boerner Horvath, aims to amend Section 30624 of the Public Resources Code concerning coastal resources and development permits. The bill proposes technical, nonsubstantive changes to enhance the regulation of development permits in the coastal zones governed by the California Coastal Act of 1976. These modifications seek to clarify the procedures and requirements for issuing permits during emergencies and for certain nonemergency developments. The legislation details the process for both executive directors of the California Coastal Commission and local officials in managing these permits, particularly in response to urgent situations.

Contention

Some potential points of contention may arise regarding the balance of authority between the California Coastal Commission and local governments. While the bill aims to provide local officials with more flexible regulations for issuing permits, there may be concerns from environmental groups regarding the expedited processes during emergencies potentially leading to insufficient oversight of coastal development activities. Critics might argue that easing regulations could compromise coastal ecosystems if emergency permits are issued without thorough review.