California Assembly Bill AB1037

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/18/21
• Refer: 3/4/21
• Report Pass: 4/20/21
• Refer: 4/21/21
• Report Pass: 4/29/21
• Refer: 5/4/21
• Report Pass: 5/19/21
• Engrossed: 5/27/21
• Refer: 5/28/21
• Refer: 6/9/21
• Report Pass: 7/6/21
• Refer: 7/6/21
• Refer: 5/31/22
• Refer: 6/8/22
• Report Pass: 6/13/22
• Refer: 6/13/22
• Report Pass: 6/29/22
• Refer: 6/29/22
• Refer: 8/2/22
• Report Pass: 8/11/22
• Refer: 8/24/22
• Refer: 8/29/22
• Enrolled: 8/30/22
• Chaptered: 9/23/22
• Passed: 9/23/22

Caption

Infrastructure construction: digital construction management technologies.

Impact

This legislation is positioned to have significant positive impacts on California's infrastructure development, leveraging digital construction management technologies to improve efficiency and effectiveness in project delivery. By setting a timeline and concrete goals, the bill aspires to enhance project execution speed while potentially lowering costs and increasing worker safety. These advancements resonate particularly well in the context of California's push toward economic recovery in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and reflects a proactive approach to maximizing federal and state investments in infrastructure.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1037, introduced by Grayson, aims at modernizing California's infrastructure projects through the integration of digital construction management technologies. The bill mandates the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to create an implementation plan for the usage of such technologies on transportation infrastructure projects. It outlines goals including the commencement of these technologies in project construction by July 1, 2029, and mandates a report detailing the progress and metrics of this integration by December 1, 2029.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment towards AB 1037 appears to be favorable among lawmakers and stakeholders advocating for updated infrastructure processes that align with technological advancements. Proponents argue that the integration of digital technologies will lead to more efficient processes and better management of transportation projects. This positive view is likely bolstered by the momentum surrounding digital transformation in various sectors, particularly construction and infrastructure.

Contention

While the bill enjoys bipartisan support in its early stages, concerns may arise regarding the effectiveness of technology implementation and the potential barriers that might hinder progress. Critics may argue about the readiness of Caltrans to adopt these technologies effectively or voice skepticism towards the ambitious timelines proposed. Additionally, the bill's eventual repeal in 2032 suggests ongoing scrutiny and a need for evaluation processes to ensure that the intended benefits are realized without detriments to existing regulatory frameworks.