Gambling: licenses: gambling establishments.
The bill mandates that the Department of Housing and Community Development consider new building standards focused on facilitating the installation of EV charging stations during construction activities, thereby minimizing costs and encouraging infrastructure development where needed. Particularly noteworthy is the provision requiring up to 20% of parking spaces in existing multifamily buildings to support future EV infrastructure installations. This aims to future-proof residential developments against the growing need for EV charging capabilities, exerting a positive long-term impact on urban sustainability.
Assembly Bill 965, introduced by Assembly Member Levine, amends various sections of the California Health and Safety Code and the Business and Professions Code. This legislation focuses primarily on setting mandatory building standards for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in multifamily dwellings and nonresidential developments, aiming to promote the adoption of electric vehicles and enhance sustainability in urban planning. Additionally, it extends existing prohibitions related to gambling licenses, postponing the issuance of new licenses for establishments not operational as of December 31, 1999, until January 1, 2033.
Overall, the sentiment surrounding AB 965 appears to be largely positive, particularly among environmental advocacy groups, who view the bill as a step towards supporting green technologies and electric vehicle adoption. However, there are concerns among developers and property owners regarding the associated costs of compliance with the new requirements for EV infrastructure, which may present a financial challenge during economic uncertainties.
While the intent behind the bill is to foster a more sustainable future, some stakeholders have expressed contention regarding the mandate for existing multifamily dwellings to adapt to new infrastructure requirements. Critics argue that such regulations may not consider the economic realities faced by property owners, particularly in areas where the retrofitting of parking facilities could involve significant expenses. Additionally, the gambling license provisions have also raised concerns among businesses looking to expand or newly operate in the dynamic gaming landscape of California.