Environmental quality: Jobs and Economic Improvement Through Environmental Leadership Act of 2011: housing projects.
The bill expands the existing framework under CEQA, extending the expiration of the Governor's certification authority for projects under the Jobs and Economic Improvement Through Environmental Leadership Act until January 1, 2024. It aims to limit delays associated with environmental assessments and judicial reviews by mandating that legal issues be resolved within a 270-business-day timeframe, thus encouraging housing development amidst California's ongoing housing crisis. Additionally, it sets forth provisions for greenhouse gas quantification and mitigation, emphasizing the importance of balancing development with environmental considerations.
Senate Bill 995, introduced by Senators Atkins and others, amends the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to enhance the environmental review process specifically for housing projects. This legislation aims to facilitate more efficient approvals for housing developments by requiring lead agencies to prepare a master environmental impact report (EIR) for general plans and specified plans when state funding is involved. The intention is to streamline the environmental review process, which can often hinder the initiation of housing projects due to lengthy approval timelines.
The sentiment surrounding SB 995 is generally supportive, particularly among stakeholders advocating for increased housing development in California, as it responds to the pressing need for affordable housing. While many view the streamlined processes as beneficial for economic growth and job creation, there exists caution around potential environmental impacts. Advocates for environmental protection are concerned that expedited processes may overlook significant ecological considerations, arguing that any development must not compromise environmental quality.
Notable points of contention include the balance between rapid development and environmental stewardship. Critics argue that while increasing housing availability is crucial, the accelerated review processes may lead to insufficient environmental protection measures. Furthermore, the requirement for project applicants to cover judicial costs raises concerns about accessibility, potentially limiting participation from smaller developers or community-based organizations, thus skewing benefits towards larger, well-established entities. Therefore, the bill encapsulates a larger debate on how best to address California's housing needs while safeguarding its environmental resources.