California Senate Bill SB1100

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/19/20
• Refer: 2/27/20

Caption

Coastal resources: sea level rise.

Impact

The legislation acknowledges California's extensive coastline and the potential economic and environmental repercussions of unchecked sea level rise, including significant losses to public infrastructure and property. The bill mandates collaboration among state and regional agencies to assess and implement measures to address these risks, making it a pivotal step toward strengthening statewide resilience against climate change. The California Coastal Commission will oversee this initiative, requiring local governments to update land use plans that reflect the realities of rising sea levels.

Summary

Senate Bill 1100 addresses the urgent challenge of sea level rise in California, emphasizing the need for comprehensive planning and mitigation measures. The bill proposes the California Sea Level Rise Mitigation and Adaptation Act of 2020, which aims to develop and establish procedures for local coastal programs to anticipate and respond to the effects of sea level rise. By mandating that the California Coastal Commission adopt guidelines for assessing and minimizing sea level rise impacts, SB 1100 aims to enhance the resilience of California's coastal zones against this pressing environmental threat.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding SB 1100 revolves around the funding and prioritization of local governments in readiness and adaptation efforts. The bill allocates up to $100 million annually for grant programs designed to assist local governments in updating their plans and implementing measures addressing sea level rise. While proponents argue this investment is essential for safeguarding vulnerable coastal communities, critics may raise concerns over the feasibility of such financial support and the administrative burden it could impose on local entities. This dynamic reflects a broader debate on resource allocation in the context of climate resilience efforts.