California 2019-2020 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB2585

Introduced
2/20/20  
Introduced
2/20/20  
Refer
4/24/20  
Refer
4/24/20  
Report Pass
5/4/20  
Report Pass
5/4/20  

Caption

California-China Climate Institute.

Impact

If passed, AB2585 would enhance California's position in global climate leadership by formalizing a partnership focused on climate issues with China. The establishment of the California-China Climate Institute is expected to advance not just academic research, but also practical climate policies that can be implemented both locally and nationally. The bill can potentially influence climate-related legislation by providing insights and data gathered through joint research initiatives, which could foster more informed decision-making within various governmental and organizational frameworks in California.

Summary

AB2585 seeks to establish the California-China Climate Institute at the University of California, Berkeley, to facilitate and accelerate climate action through collaboration with Chinese institutions. The institute aims to foster cooperation in climate policy and research between California and China, two of the world's major economies. This initiative underscores California's commitment to ambitious climate goals and international cooperation, especially in areas such as carbon emissions, clean energy, and sustainability practices. The institute is intended to serve as an educational and research center that will support both California's and China's efforts to combat climate change and advance the goals set in the Paris Agreement.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding AB2585 is positive, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of international cooperation in addressing climate change. Legislators and stakeholders view the establishment of the institute as a proactive step towards enhancing collaborative efforts, sharing technological advancements, and developing unified climate policies. However, there are considerations regarding how this partnership will address local climate needs while engaging with a larger foreign entity, which requires careful navigation of political and regulatory landscapes.

Contention

While the support for AB2585 is strong among environmental advocates and academic institutions, concerns may arise regarding the implications of such an international partnership. Critics might argue about the potential for dependence on foreign cooperation and the challenge of aligning the differing regulatory frameworks and political landscapes of California and China. Moreover, discussions may explore how such cooperation can maintain local governance and address the specific climate-related issues faced within California itself.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA SB1348

Postsecondary education: Designation of California Black-Serving Institutions.

CA AB3142

Los Angeles Community College District: California Center for Climate Change Education.

CA AB2633

California State University: joint degrees: international institutions of higher education.

CA AB3081

Public postsecondary education: University of California, Merced: medical education.

CA AB3034

Public postsecondary education: waiver of tuition and fees: California Conservation Corps.

CA SB11

California State University: mental health counseling.

CA AB2407

Public postsecondary educational institutions: sexual harassment complaints: state audits.

CA AB1749

Student Transfer Achievement Reform Act: University of California.

CA SB995

California State University: High-Quality Teacher Recruitment and Retention Act.

CA AB3167

California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009: highly qualified private nonprofit institution.

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