California Senate Bill SB1231

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/20
• Refer: 3/5/20
• Refer: 5/6/20
• Report Pass: 5/19/20
• Refer: 5/19/20
• Engrossed: 6/11/20
• Refer: 6/18/20
• Report Pass: 8/4/20
• Refer: 8/4/20
• Report Pass: 8/11/20
• Enrolled: 8/30/20
• Chaptered: 9/28/20
• Passed: 9/28/20

Caption

Endangered species: take: Santa Cruz long-toed salamander.

Impact

The passage of SB 1231 modifies existing provisions of the California Endangered Species Act, which generally prohibits the taking of endangered species. It allows for specified exceptions that would enable lawful construction projects to proceed while still minimizing and mitigating impacts on the environment. This bill may set a precedent for how other endangered species are managed during infrastructure development, reflecting a balancing act between development needs and ecological conservation.

Summary

Senate Bill 1231, authored by Senator Monning, addresses the procedural authorization for taking the endangered Santa Cruz long-toed salamander (Ambystoma macrodactylum croceum) under specific conditions. The bill aims to facilitate construction activities along the State Route 156 corridor through Moro Cojo Slough in Monterey County. By allowing the Department of Fish and Wildlife to issue permits for the incidental take of this species, the bill seeks to enhance safety and access along the roadway.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 1231 appears to be primarily positive among supporters who advocate for infrastructure improvements, asserting that the bill includes necessary protections and requirements for environmental accountability. Meanwhile, environmental advocates exhibit concern regarding potential overreach and the implications of permitting take for development purposes, fearing it may lead to the broader compromise of protections for endangered species in similar contexts.

Contention

Notable contention arises from the balance between developmental objectives and the protective mandates for endangered species. Critics express worry that authorizing the taking of the Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, even under controlled conditions, could weaken existing safeguards under the California Endangered Species Act. Advocates for the bill argue that the permitting process is designed to uphold conservation standards while allowing necessary infrastructure improvements to occur.