Environmental quality: Jobs and Economic Improvement Through Environmental Leadership Act of 2011: leadership project certification.
The most significant change brought by AB 2991 is the extension of the certification period for projects eligible for streamlining benefits until January 1, 2025. Additionally, the bill places a requirement on projects to not result in additional greenhouse gas emissions and to demonstrate improved transportation efficiency. These amendments may have implications for state and local agencies managing environmental compliance processes and could encourage more sustainable project designs across California. Local agencies, however, may face challenges adapting to these requirements, particularly in terms of projecting and reporting emissions data.
Assembly Bill No. 2991, introduced by Assembly Members Santiago and Ting, seeks to amend several sections of the Public Resources Code to extend the authority of the Governor to certify environmental leadership development projects under the Jobs and Economic Improvement Through Environmental Leadership Act. This bill broadens the eligibility criteria for such projects to include stricter environmental standards, such as not exceeding greenhouse gas emissions and achieving a significant reduction in vehicle miles traveled. The intent is to incentivize projects that achieve high environmental performance while also promoting economic growth and development.
The sentiment regarding AB 2991 appears to be supportive among proponents of green initiatives and economic development, viewing the bill as a positive step towards integrating environmental stewardship with economic growth. However, there are concerns among local governments regarding the authority given to the state and the potential burden this places on local agencies to meet stringent requirements while ensuring compliance with state mandates. The balance between advancing environmental goals and maintaining local autonomy reflects a broader conflict in California politics.
Notable points of contention within the discussions surrounding AB 2991 include the degree of autonomy local agencies will retain in regulating land use and environmental impacts. Critics argue that the bill may encroach upon local control, as it centralizes more decision-making power with the state. Additionally, the comprehensive nature of the requirements imposed by the bill could lead to increased costs and administrative burdens for local agencies that may not be adequately compensated, as the bill clarifies that no reimbursement is required by the state for these obligations.