Coastal resources: Program for Coastal Resilience, Adaptation, and Access.
The bill proposes the creation of the Coastal Resilience, Adaptation, and Access Fund within the State Treasury. This fund will be supported by at least 30% of revenues received by the California State Lands Commission, which are currently deposited into the General Fund. The bill authorizes the California Coastal Commission and other relevant agencies to utilize this fund for scientific actions that respond to climate change, highlighting the urgency for comprehensive state-wide initiatives to mitigate these risks. This funding mechanism aims to enhance California's capacity to manage its coastal resources effectively.
Assembly Bill 2619, introduced by Assembly Member Mark Stone, aims to establish the Program for Coastal Resilience, Adaptation, and Access within California's Public Resources Code. This program is designed to ensure that California can adequately prepare for and adapt to the impacts of sea level rise and climate change. It seeks to allocate funding specifically for activities that address these pressing environmental issues, emphasizing the need for proactive state-level planning and resources.
A central theme in the discussions around AB 2619 is the prioritization of environmental justice and availability of resources to all communities across California. Critics of similar initiatives often express concerns about adequate oversight and the effective use of funded programs. Therefore, this bill includes mandates for transparency; the Natural Resources Agency must publicly report on the activities funded by the program, their costs, and anticipated benefits. These accountability measures are crucial for ensuring that funds are directed appropriately and serve the intended environmental and community-focused objectives.