California Assembly Bill AB2387

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/17/22
• Refer: 3/3/22
• Report Pass: 3/21/22
• Refer: 3/22/22
• Report Pass: 4/5/22
• Refer: 4/5/22
• Report Pass: 4/26/22
• Refer: 4/26/22
• Refer: 5/11/22

Caption

Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparation, Flood Protection, Extreme Heat Mitigation, and Workforce Development Bond Act of 2022.

Impact

The bill seeks to address significant state-wide concerns regarding climate impacts, especially in low-income and historically marginalized communities. By investing in projects that improve infrastructure and ecosystem resilience, AB2387 aims to reduce vulnerability to climate-related disasters. The legislative findings highlight the direct connection between climate change and economic costs, which could exceed $100 billion by mid-century if proactive measures are not undertaken. Thus, the bill's passage is seen as a necessary step in safeguarding public health and economic stability in California.

Summary

AB2387, known as the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparation, Flood Protection, Extreme Heat Mitigation, and Workforce Development Bond Act of 2022, proposes to issue $7.43 billion in bonds. If passed, this funding will be allocated for critical projects addressing safe drinking water access, wildfire prevention initiatives, drought resilience programs, flood protection efforts, measures to mitigate extreme heat, and workforce development in related fields. The bill aims to enhance California's ability to confront pressing environmental challenges exacerbated by climate change, particularly in vulnerable regions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB2387 is largely supportive among environmentally-conscious lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents view the bill as an essential legislative response to the urgency of climate change and its consequential threats to both human and ecological health. However, there are concerns among some stakeholders regarding the effectiveness of government investments and whether the allocated funds will reach the communities most in need. The urgency clause in the bill reflects the lawmakers' intent to expedite the legislative process and address these climate issues quickly.

Contention

Despite general support, AB2387 may face scrutiny regarding the allocation of funds and oversight of projects funded by the bond measure. Critics may question past effectiveness of similar funding initiatives and express concerns over potential bureaucratic inefficiencies. Moreover, ensuring that investments specifically benefit marginalized communities remains a pivotal point of discussion. The further requirement for the bill to pass by a two-thirds majority in both legislative houses and then gain voter approval at a statewide election adds additional complexity to its enactment.