California 2023-2024 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB277

Introduced
1/23/23  
Refer
2/9/23  
Introduced
1/23/23  
Introduced
1/23/23  
Refer
2/9/23  
Refer
2/9/23  
Report Pass
3/14/23  
Report Pass
3/14/23  
Refer
3/14/23  
Report Pass
3/22/23  
Report Pass
3/22/23  
Report Pass
3/22/23  
Refer
3/23/23  
Report Pass
4/7/23  
Refer
3/23/23  
Refer
3/23/23  
Refer
4/10/23  
Report Pass
4/7/23  
Report Pass
4/7/23  
Refer
4/10/23  
Report Pass
4/19/23  
Report Pass
4/19/23  
Refer
4/19/23  
Refer
4/19/23  
Refer
5/10/23  
Refer
5/10/23  
Report Pass
5/18/23  
Report Pass
5/18/23  
Report Pass
5/18/23  
Engrossed
5/31/23  
Engrossed
5/31/23  
Engrossed
5/31/23  
Refer
6/1/23  
Refer
6/14/23  
Refer
6/1/23  
Refer
6/1/23  
Report Pass
6/22/23  
Refer
6/14/23  
Refer
6/26/23  
Report Pass
6/22/23  
Refer
6/26/23  
Report Pass
7/3/23  
Report Pass
7/3/23  
Refer
7/3/23  
Report Pass
7/11/23  
Report Pass
7/11/23  
Refer
8/21/23  
Refer
7/11/23  
Refer
7/11/23  
Refer
8/21/23  

Caption

Extreme Weather Forecast and Threat Intelligence Integration Center.

Impact

The bill is poised to significantly improve California's preparedness for and response to flooding and related emergencies. It mandates the collaboration between the Department of Water Resources and the Office of Emergency Services, among other agencies, to develop a report by October 1, 2025. This report will detail necessary technological advancements for better forecasting, identify underserved regions, and highlight gaps in data that need to be addressed to improve flood response capabilities. These provisions aim to optimize emergency response systems throughout the state.

Summary

Assembly Bill 277, introduced by Assembly Member Rodriguez, aims to establish the State-Federal Flood Operations Center within the Department of Water Resources. This center is intended to be the primary hub for gathering, analyzing, and disseminating flood-related information to relevant stakeholders. The bill acknowledges the increasing threat that extreme weather events, such as excessive heat and atmospheric rivers, pose to lives, property, and resources in California. By creating this centralized authority, the state seeks to enhance coordination and communication among various agencies involved in flood response and water management.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 277 appears largely supportive, particularly among those emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to mitigate the effects of extreme weather. Supporters argue that the establishment of the Flood Operations Center is critical for enhancing the state's response to increasing climate-induced challenges. However, there may also be concerns among local agencies about the adequacy of the state’s resources and the efficacy of the proposed coordination, suggesting a cautious optimism that hinges on effective implementation.

Contention

While the bill's objectives align with the pressing need for improved emergency preparedness, it may generate discussions around budget considerations and resource allocation. Critics could voice concerns regarding whether the proposed center will effectively address the unique needs of different regions, especially those historically underserved by state resources. The expected collaboration between various governmental agencies will be crucial in addressing these potential contentions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

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