California Assembly Bill AB948

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/19
• Refer: 3/25/19
• Report Pass: 3/26/19
• Refer: 3/27/19
• Refer: 4/8/19
• Report Pass: 4/25/19
• Refer: 4/30/19
• Report Pass: 5/15/19
• Engrossed: 5/22/19
• Refer: 5/23/19
• Refer: 5/29/19
• Report Pass: 6/18/19
• Refer: 6/18/19
• Report Pass: 6/26/19
• Refer: 6/26/19
• Report Pass: 8/12/19
• Refer: 8/12/19
• Enrolled: 9/3/19
• Chaptered: 9/27/19
• Passed: 9/27/19

Caption

Coyote Valley Conservation Program.

Impact

The bill mandates local planning documents to recognize Coyote Valley as an area of statewide significance and imposes state-mandated local program duties. It aims to foster sustainable development while preventing further degradation resulting from unchecked development pressures. Coyote Valley is vital for wildlife migration and provides substantial agricultural output, generating significant economic benefits. This recognition seeks to improve land management practices to enhance ecological resilience, supporting flood management and potentially increasing recreational access for communities.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 948 establishes the Coyote Valley Conservation Program under the jurisdiction of the Santa Clara Valley Open-Space Authority. The program aims to address various resource and recreational goals tied to the Coyote Valley, an area identified as having significant agricultural, wildlife, and recreational value. As part of its directives, the bill allows for collaboration with local, state, and regional partners to enhance conservation efforts, and requires specific planned developments within Coyote Valley to consult with the authority, ensuring that environmental values are considered during project approvals.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment around AB 948 appears to be supportive with strong backing from environmental advocates and local populations who recognize the critical need for preservation and sustainable management of Coyote Valley. Proponents believe the bill will effectively balance development with the ecological needs of the area, while detractors express concerns about potential limitations it may impose on land use, fearing that stringent regulations could hinder beneficial development opportunities that could arise from improved local planning.

Contention

Key points of contention in discussions around AB 948 revolve around balancing environmental conservation with economic development. Some stakeholders worry that heightened regulations could limit agricultural expansion and increase bureaucratic hurdles for development projects. Others argue that without these protections, the area could face irreversible ecological damage, leading to costs that outweigh potential financial benefits from unrestricted development. The tension highlights the ongoing debate between conservation priorities and economic growth.