HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-06-17; City Council Legislative Subcommittee; 02; Legislative and Advocacy UpdateMeeting Date: June 17, 2025
To: Legislative Subcommittee
From: Jason Haber, Intergovernmental Affairs Director
Staff Contact: Jason Haber, Intergovernmental Affairs Director
jason.haber@carlsbadca.gov, 442-339-2958
Subject: Legislative and Advocacy Update
District: All
Recommended Action
Receive updates on federal and state legislative and budget activity and recent and ongoing
advocacy efforts; discuss and provide feedback to staff, including identifying high-priority bills,
advocacy positions, funding opportunities, and items for future City Council consideration.
Discussion
Staff and the city’s contract lobbyists – Federal: Carpi & Clay Government Relations / State:
California Public Policy Group – will present updates and overviews of federal and state legislative
and budget activity and the priority legislation and intergovernmental matters being tracked on
behalf of the city (Exhibits 1 and 2 – federal; Exhibits 3 through 7 - state).
The Subcommittee is requested to provide feedback to help city staff and the city’s lobbying
consultants focus the city’s advocacy efforts on high-priority bills and to identify bills for future City
Council consideration.
Next Steps
Staff and the city’s contract lobbyists will monitor, evaluate, and engage the Legislative
Subcommittee in a discussion of legislative activity and proposed measures that may impact city
operations and policy priorities throughout the legislative session.
If the Legislative Subcommittee decides to refer any matters to the City Council, staff will work with
the City Manager to place an item on a future City Council agenda for consideration.
Exhibits
1.Carpi & Clay Government Relations – Federal Monthly Update, May 2025
2.Carpi & Clay Government Relations – Federal Legislation Memo
3.California Public Policy Group – State Monthly Update, May 2025
4.California Public Policy Group – Priority State Legislation as of June 12, 2025
5.California Public Policy Group – SB 79 (Wiener) Analysis
6.California Public Policy Group – AB 609 (Wicks) & SB 607 (Wiener) Analysis
7.California Public Policy Group – AB 1337 (Ward) Analysis
LEGISLATIVE SUBCOMMITTEE
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 1 of 52
Exhibit 1
1
May 30, 2025
City of Carlsbad
Federal Update
www.carpiclay.com
House Passes Budget Reconciliation Bill, Heads to Senate
On May 22, the House narrowly passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1), a budget
reconciliation bill that represents the cornerstone of President Trump and congressional
Republicans’ legislative agenda, by a 215-214 vote. All Democrats opposed the bill, joined by two Republicans—Reps. Warren Davidson (OH) and Thomas Massie (KY)—who cited concerns over the federal deficit. Two GOP members missed the vote, and one voted “present.”
The legislation combines tax, spending, and policy proposals across a wide range of federal
programs. Among other provisions, it would:
•Extend provisions of the 2017 tax law and make additional changes to the federal taxcode, including adjustments to the state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap and
enhancements to the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit;
•Provide significant increases in funding for defense and homeland security;
•Restructure Medicaid and federal education programs;
•Reduce non-defense discretionary spending, particularly across green energy,environmental, and social services programs; and
•Provide new funding for agricultural producers and rural infrastructure with farm labor
reforms.
The bill now heads to the Senate, where Republican leaders are expected to make revisions. They must also navigate the Byrd Rule, which restricts the types of provisions that can be included in budget reconciliation bills when considered on the Senate floor.
President Trump Releases Fiscal Year 2026 “Skinny” Budget Proposal
On May 2, the White House released President Trump’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 “skinny” budget proposal, outlining the Administration’s top funding priorities ahead of a more detailed request
expected soon. The 46-page document proposes an overall 22.6% reduction in non-defense
discretionary spending. The plan calls for a 13% increase in defense spending and a 65% increase for the Department of Homeland Security. The proposal also outlines intentions to revise or eliminate various federal programs and agencies’ activities that the Administration views as outside core federal responsibilities or inconsistent with its priorities.
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This budget serves as a starting point for the FY 2026 appropriations process, which is already underway in Congress due to delays in completing FY 2025 funding. As with all presidential budgets, the proposal is nonbinding; Congress ultimately determines final funding levels
through the annual appropriations process.
Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations Update
House Appropriations Committee Chair Tom Cole (R-OK) announced the markup schedule for all twelve FY 2026 appropriations bills:
FY26 Appropriations Bill House Subcommittee Markup Date House Full Committee Markup Date Agriculture-Rural Development-FDA June 5 June 11
Commerce-Justice-Science July 7 July 10
Defense June 10 June 13
Energy-Water Development July 7 July 10
Financial Services-General
Government June 23 June 26
Homeland Security June 9 June 12
Interior-Environment June 23 June 26
Labor-HHS July 21 July 24
Legislative Branch June 24 June 27
MilCon-VA June 5 June 10
State-Foreign Operations June 24 June 27
Transportation-HUD July 14 July 17
Additionally, House Members submitted their fifteen Community Project Funding requests to the House Appropriations Committee for consideration in the appropriations bills. Members are required to post a full list of their requests on their websites by June 13.
EPA Announces Update to PFAS Drinking Water Regulations
On May 14, EPA announced it will maintain the existing National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for PFOA and PFOS—standards finalized in 2024—while extending compliance deadlines by two years, from 2029 to 2031. The agency also launched the PFAS OUTreach Initiative (PFAS OUT) to support small and rural water systems with technical assistance,
resources, and outreach. Additionally, EPA signaled its intent to rescind and reconsider the
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regulatory determinations for four other PFAS chemicals—PFHxS, PFNA, GenX, and PFBS—citing a need to ensure the Safe Drinking Water Act process is followed. Additionally, the EPA emphasized its support for passive receivers by delaying implementation timelines, enhancing
coordination, and holding polluters accountable through forthcoming effluent limitations
guidelines. A proposed rule to formalize the new compliance timeline is expected this fall, with a final rule anticipated in spring 2026. Supreme Court Limits Scope of Environmental Reviews Under
NEPA
On May 29, the Supreme Court ruled 8-0 in Seven County Infrastructure Coalition v. Eagle
County that federal agencies are not required to consider the environmental effects of separate upstream or downstream activities—such as oil drilling or refining—when conducting reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). With Justice Kavanaugh writing for the
majority, the Court held that federal agencies are not required to consider environmental effects from upstream or downstream activities—such as oil drilling or refining—if those activities fall outside the agency’s jurisdiction and are not part of the specific project being approved. The decision reversed a lower court ruling that faulted the U.S. Surface Transportation Board for not fully analyzing the broader climate impacts of a proposed rail line in Utah. Justice
Sotomayor, joined by Justices Kagan and Jackson, concurred in the judgment. Justice Gorsuch did not participate. Trump Administration Appointments
President Trump announced the following appointments to his administration in May:
Dept/Agency Position Appointee
Environmental Protection Agency Assistant Administrator Jeffrey Hall
Homeland Security Under Secretary, Science and Technology Pedro Allende
Housing and Urban Development Assistant Secretary Benjamin Hobbs
Housing and Urban Development Assistant Secretary Ronald Kurtz
Labor Assistant Secretary for Veterans’ Employment and Training
Jeremiah Workman
Transportation Administrator, Maritime Administration Stephen Carmel
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LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITY
Congress Votes to Repeal California’s Vehicle Emissions Waivers. The House and Senate
have passed three resolutions (H. J. Res. 87, 88, and 89) to rescind EPA waivers previously granted to the State of California under the Clean Air Act. These waivers allowed the State to implement stricter emissions standards for passenger cars and heavy-duty trucks, including mandates for zero-emission vehicles. President Trump is expected to sign these joint
resolutions. The resolutions were advanced under the Congressional Review Act (CRA),
despite objections from the Senate parliamentarian and the Government Accountability Office, both of which questioned the legality of using the CRA in this context. California Governor Newsom and Attorney General Bonta announced that the State intends to file a lawsuit to defend the State’s waivers.
Senate Confirms MacGregor as Deputy Interior Secretary. On May 14, the Senate voted 53-40 to confirm Katharine MacGregor as Deputy Secretary of the Interior. MacGregor previously held the same position during the final year of the first Trump administration and had earlier served as deputy chief of staff to then-Interior Secretary David Bernhardt. After leaving
the administration, she worked as vice president of environmental services at NextEra Energy.
MacGregor supports increased oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico and has expressed interest in using federal lands more efficiently for housing development. Senate Commerce Committee Approves Transportation Bills and Nominations. On May
21, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation approved the following
transportation-related nominations and bills:
• The Household Goods Shipping Consumer Protection Act (S. 337): Clarifies the authority of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) relating to the
shipping of household goods
• The Combating Trafficking in Transportation Act (S. 1442): Allows the installation of human trafficking awareness signs at rest stops to be eligible for funding under the surface transportation block grant program
• David Fink to be the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration
• Robert Gleason to be a Director of the Amtrak Board of Directors
Bipartisan House Bill Introduced to Expand Counter-Drone Authority at Major Events.
Representatives Greg Steube (R-FL), Dina Titus (D-NV), Rudy Yakym (R-IN), Lou Correa (D-CA), Cory Mills (R-FL), and Jill Tokuda (D-HI) introduced the Disabling Enemy Flight Entry and
Neutralizing Suspect Equipment (DEFENSE) Act (H.R. 3207), which would allow the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Justice to deputize trained state and
local law enforcement officers to intercept hostile drones at events protected by temporary flight
restrictions. Currently, only federal personnel have this authority. The bill outlines training, oversight, and equipment standards, with systems limited to those approved in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration, the Federal Communications Commission, and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. This bill has been referred to the
House Judiciary and Transportation & Infrastructure Committees for further consideration.
Companion legislation (S. 663) was introduced by Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) in February.
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House Committee Leaders Release Draft Bill to Overhaul FEMA. On May 8, House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chair Sam Graves (R-MO) and Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA) released a discussion draft of legislation to reform the Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The proposal would restore FEMA as an independent, cabinet-level agency and streamline federal disaster assistance programs. Key proposed provisions include expedited project-based grants for recovery, simplified survivor applications, permitting reforms, and incentives for state-led mitigation investments. The draft also would direct FEMA to close longstanding disaster declarations, improve interagency
coordination, and enhance transparency and accountability in disaster aid. The Committee is seeking stakeholder feedback prior to bill introduction and any formal legislative action. House Democrats Introduce Bill to Enforce Congressional Control Over Federal Spending. On May 15, Representatives Sam Liccardo (D-CA), Dave Min (D-CA), and Eugene
Vindman (D-VA) introduced the Protecting Our Constitution and Communities Act (H.R. 3454), a bill designed to strengthen enforcement of the Impoundment Control Act (ICA) of 1974. The legislation would enable individuals, states, and local governments to take legal action if they are harmed by executive branch officials unlawfully withholding congressionally appropriated funds. It would also impose accountability measures on officials who knowingly violate the ICA,
including personal liability and the loss of immunity protections. Supporters of this bill include the U.S. Conference of Mayors, the Project on Government Oversight, and the American Federation of Government Employees. This bill has been referred to the House Budget and Rules Committees for further consideration.
Senators Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Water Infrastructure Financing. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced the Restoring WIFIA Eligibility Act (S. 1760), a bipartisan bill to expand access to federal water infrastructure loans under the WIFIA program. The legislation would ensure projects with federal cost-sharing remain eligible for WIFIA assistance if led by non-federal entities and repaid with non-federal funds. Companion
legislation (H.R. 3035) was introduced by Reps. Jim Costa (D-CA) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA). New Bipartisan Build America Caucus Launched to Promote Pro-Growth Policy Agenda. On May 7, a coalition of nearly 30 bipartisan Members of Congress launched the Build America
Caucus to support policies aimed at accelerating housing construction, infrastructure development, and domestic energy production. Chaired by Rep. Josh Harder (D-CA), the caucus will advocate for permitting reform, streamlined federal processes, and targeted incentives to reduce costs and improve delivery timelines.
CONGRESSIONAL LETTERS
Lawmakers Urge DHS to Reinstate FEMA’s BRIC Program. On May 13, Rep. Chuck
Edwards (R-NC) led a bipartisan, bicameral letter urging Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and FEMA leadership to reinstate the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program. The letter, co-led by Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Patty Murray (D-WA), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Representatives Sylvia Garcia (D-TX),
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Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), and Ed Case (D-HI), highlights BRIC’s role in reducing disaster recovery costs and protecting infrastructure. The lawmakers acknowledged opportunities for program improvements but stressed that halting BRIC would undermine resilience efforts. They
called on DHS and FEMA to work with Congress to improve grant accessibility and ensure funding continues to support mitigation and preparedness nationwide. Top Democratic Appropriators Press OMB for FY25 Spending Details. House Appropriations Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Senate Appropriations Committee
Vice Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) sent a letter to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought criticizing the lack of transparency in agency spending plans required under the FY25 full-year continuing resolution. They noted that several departments—such as HHS and Education—either missed the April 29 deadline or submitted incomplete reports omitting billions in funding details. The lawmakers urged OMB to ensure all agencies provide
full, program-level data by the end of May to support the Committees’ efforts to develop and consider FY26 appropriations bills. Democratic Committee Leaders Urge Reversal of AmeriCorps Grant Cuts and Layoffs. Five senior Democrats—Representatives Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Bobby Scott (D-VA) and
Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Bernie Sanders (D-VT)—sent a letter to the interim head of AmeriCorps calling for the reversal of recent layoffs and terminations of nearly $400 million in grants. The lawmakers argue these actions, taken by the Trump administration and the Department of Governmental Efficiency (DOGE), are unlawful, undermine congressional intent, and threaten vital community services provided by
AmeriCorps volunteers. The letter cites violations of statutory notice requirements, potential
harm to disaster recovery and education efforts, and a growing risk that AmeriCorps cannot carry out its core responsibilities. California Democrats Urge Elimination of SALT Deduction Cap. On May 20,
Representatives Dave Min, Zoe Lofgren, and Mike Thompson led a letter signed by 21 California House Democrats urging House Speaker Mike Johnson and Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith not to include a cap on the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction in the upcoming budget reconciliation bill. The lawmakers argued that reinstating a SALT cap would disproportionately burden Californians, who already contribute significantly
more in federal taxes than the state receives in return. The cap enacted under the 2017 Tax
Cuts and Jobs Act is currently set to expire at the end of 2025. FEDERAL FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
DOJ Releases COPS Hiring Program Grant NOFO. The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) has released a Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Fiscal Year 2025 COPS Hiring Program. This competitive grant program
is expected to provide up to $156.6 million to support the hiring or rehiring of career law enforcement officers, with the goal of enhancing community policing and crime prevention. Eligible applicants include local, state, territorial, and tribal law enforcement agencies with primary law enforcement authority. Generally, each award covers up to 75 percent of entry-
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level officer salaries and fringe benefits for a three-year period within a five-year performance window to allow time for recruitment and hiring. The maximum federal share per officer position is $125,000 total over three years. Applications must be submitted by July 1, 2025 at 4:59 p.m.
ET.
DOJ Releases Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA) Program NOFO. The DOJ COPS Office has released a Notice of Funding Opportunity for the FY25 LEMHWA program, which will provide up to $9.8 million in competitive grants to support mental
health and wellness services for law enforcement officers and their families. Eligible projects
may include peer support programs, training, suicide prevention, stress reduction, and initiatives aimed at reducing stigma around mental health. All local, state, tribal, and territorial law enforcement agencies with primary law enforcement authority are eligible to apply. Applications are due by June 30.
DOJ Releases Community Policing Development (CPD) Microgrants NOFO. The DOJ COPS Office released a Notice of Funding Opportunity for the FY25 CPD Microgrants Program, which will provide approximately $8.8 million to help local, state, tribal, and territorial law enforcement agencies develop and implement innovative community policing strategies.
Funding may support pilot projects addressing officer recruitment and retention, violent crime prevention, drug market interruption, homelessness, and related topics. Applications are due by June 30. DOJ Releases Safer Outcomes Program NOFO. The DOJ COPS Office has released a
Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Fiscal Year 2025 Safer Outcomes: Enhancing De-
Escalation and Crisis Response Training for Law Enforcement program. This $18 million competitive grant program will support training for law enforcement officers, agency staff, and mental health professionals on crisis response, de-escalation, and referrals to community-based services. Applications are due by June 30. DOT Releases Regional Infrastructure Accelerators Program NOFO. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Build America Bureau has released a Notice of Funding Opportunity for up to $20 million in no-match grants under the Regional Infrastructure Accelerators Program. The funding supports technical assistance, planning, and project development to accelerate
regional transportation infrastructure using innovative financing and delivery strategies, including public-private partnerships. Applications are due by June 16. FEMA Releases FY 2024 SAFER Grant NOFO. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has released a Notice of Funding Opportunity for the FY 2024 Staffing for Adequate
Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program. With $360 million available, SAFER provides funding to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to hire or retain personnel and enhance 24-hour staffing. Applications are due by July 3. FEMA Releases FY 2024 Fire Prevention and Safety Grant NOFO. The Federal Emergency
Management Agency has released a Notice of Funding Opportunity for the FY 2024 Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grant program. The program makes $36 million available to support fire prevention initiatives and firefighter safety research. Eligible applicants include fire
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departments, nonprofit organizations, and academic institutions. Applications are due by July 3.
FEDERAL AGENCY ACTIONS AND PERSONNEL CHANGES
President Trump Signs Order on Federal Scientific Standards. On May 23, President
Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to revise how they conduct, use,
and communicate scientific research. Citing a loss of public trust during the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns over climate and fisheries policy, the order mandates a review of all Biden-era actions for compliance. The order emphasizes transparency, reproducibility, and peer review, and prohibits reliance on “highly unlikely” or “overly precautionary” assumptions
unless required by law. Agencies must revise internal policies and report back within 60 days
following new guidance from the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Elon Musk Departs Trump Administration Post. On May 28, Elon Musk announced his departure from the Trump administration, marking the end of his tenure as a special
government employee leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk, who
was limited to 130 workdays per year in his temporary role, had spearheaded efforts to reduce federal spending and staffing. His departure comes amid public criticism of President Trump’s budget proposal, which Musk said “undermines the work” of DOGE. Despite stepping back, Musk said DOGE’s mission will continue.
Federal Agencies Issue Joint Guidance on Reducing Cyber Risks to Operational Technology. On May 6, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), in coordination with the FBI, EPA, and DOE, released guidance to help critical infrastructure operators reduce cyber threats to operational technology (OT) systems. The advisory
recommends several mitigation strategies, including removing OT from the public internet,
securing remote access, changing default passwords, segmenting IT and OT networks, and maintaining manual operations capabilities. The guidance follows increasing cyber incidents targeting industrial control systems and emphasizes the importance of collaboration with system integrators and vendors to prevent misconfigurations.
DHS Releases List of Sanctuary Jurisdictions Under Executive Order on Immigration Compliance. On May 29, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released its initial list of “sanctuary jurisdictions” in accordance with an April 28 executive order requiring DHS to identify states and localities that do not comply with federal immigration enforcement efforts.
DHS stated jurisdictions were assessed based on policies that restrict cooperation with federal law enforcement, limit information sharing, or otherwise shield individuals from immigration proceedings. Each listed jurisdiction will receive formal notification from DHS. Under the executive order, federal agencies are directed to review relevant grants and contracts and identify federal funding for possible suspension or termination, as permitted by law. If
jurisdictions continue to be noncompliant after receiving notice, the order directs the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security to pursue “all necessary legal remedies and enforcement measures” to bring them into compliance with federal immigration laws. DHS stated that the list will be updated regularly and may be revised based on further review.
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DOT Approves 256 Grants Across Its Agencies. DOT announced on May 6 and May 14 that it has approved infrastructure grants, totaling more than $3.8 billion. A detailed breakdown of the grants released is below:
• Federal Aviation Administration
o Airport Improvement Program: 3 projects ($1.95 million) o Airport Improvement Program – Supplemental: 5 projects ($30 million) o Airport Terminal Program: 39 projects ($309.1 million)
• Federal Highway Administration
o Bridge Investment Program: 17 projects ($1.4 billion) o National Scenic Byway Program: 1 project ($342,000) o National Culvert Removal, Replacement, and Restoration Grant: 8 projects ($33
million)
o Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program: 17 projects ($126 million)
• Federal Railroad Administration o Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI): 7 projects
($280 million)
o Corridor Identification and Development Program: 2 projects ($4 million)
o Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail (NEC): 1 project ($30 million) o Railroad Crossing Elimination: 26 projects ($61 million)
o Special Transportation Circumstances: 1 project ($2.4 million)
• Federal Transit Administration o Low or No Emission (Bus) Grants: 34 projects ($519 million) o Buses and Bus Facilities Competitive: 1 project ($12 million)
o Tribal Transit Competitive: 7 projects ($3.9 million)
• Maritime Administration o Port Infrastructure Development Program: 3 projects ($77 million) o Transportation Demonstration Program: 1 project ($38 million)
• Office of the Secretary
o Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD): 6 projects ($79 million) o Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight & Highway Projects (INFRA): 8 projects
($450 million)
o National Infrastructure Project Assistance (Mega): 1 project ($9.9 million)
o Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program (Rural): 5 projects ($189 million) o Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A): 21 projects ($18 million) o Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART): 27 projects
($90.6 million)
o Small Community Air Service Development Program: 16 projects ($13.6 million) DOT Unveils Broad Deregulatory Package. On May 29, Transportation Secretary Duffy announced 52 deregulatory actions across the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA),
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA). The changes include removing regulations associated with discontinued grant programs, updating documentation requirements for commercial drivers, clarifying licensing rules for certain military personnel, and revising outdated vehicle safety and
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equipment standards. DOT says the reforms aim to improve efficiency without compromising safety. Of the 52 actions, 43 are proposed rules, seven are final, and two are withdrawals of previous proposals.
EPA Seeks Nominations for Reconstituted Science Advisory Boards. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced the agency is accepting nominations for the Science Advisory Board and Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee, which are tasked with providing independent scientific advice to the Administrator on the science that underlies agency rulemaking. The
solicitation marks an effort to reconstitute the boards with new membership under the Trump
administration. EPA stated it will conduct a rigorous review of all nominations, with final selections based on scientific expertise across a range of disciplines. Acting FEMA Administrator Fired Following Congressional Testimony. On May 8, Acting
FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton was dismissed following testimony at a House
Appropriations Committee hearing in which he opposed the Trump administration’s proposal to eliminate the agency. Hamilton has been replaced by David Richardson, who previously led the Department of Homeland Security’s Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office. The dismissal comes just weeks before hurricane season and amid ongoing congressional scrutiny
of the administration’s terminations of FEMA programs and proposed budget cuts.
GAO Publishes Report on Highway Formula Grant Programs. GAO has published a report titled “Highway Funding: Information on Variables for Potential New Formula Grant Programs.” The report identifies 27 measurable variables that could be used to allocate
funding in potential new federal highway formula programs. These variables include total lane
miles, vehicle miles traveled, bridge condition, freight movement metrics, safety indicators, and measures of system reliability. The report concludes that federal data is already available to support 22 of these variables, primarily through existing DOT data sources. However, five variables present challenges due to privacy concerns or lack of required data collection. GAO
recommends that if new formula programs are considered, policymakers should weigh the trade-offs between using readily available data and the need for additional data collection to ensure fair and effective distribution of funds. GAO Publishes Report on Transportation Discretionary Grants. GAO has published a report titled “Transportation Grants: Applicants Cited Benefits of Combined Application, but DOT Should Improve Transparency.” The report found that applicants generally appreciated the streamlined Multimodal Project Discretionary Grant (MPDG) process, which combined multiple grant applications into one, but also noted challenges such as limited staffing and technical expertise. However, GAO identified significant transparency issues in how DOT
selected projects for awards, including undefined criteria for what made an application “exemplary” and insufficient documentation of selection decisions. GAO reiterated prior recommendations that DOT clearly define selection criteria and fully document key decision points. Implementing these recommendations would help ensure greater fairness and accountability in DOT’s competitive grant programs.
Interior & USDA Wildfire Issue Wildfire Preparedness Agreement. On May 20, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins signed a joint memo
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outlining coordinated wildfire preparedness and response efforts. With an emphasis on fuels reduction and firefighter safety, this joint memo aims to strengthen coordination between the two departments during wildfire season and enhance collaboration across the Cabinet, as well
as with state and local partners.
Interior Seeks Input on Regulatory Reform. The Department of the Interior (DOI) has published a Request for Information (RFI) seeking public input on existing regulations that could be modified or repealed to reduce regulatory burdens while continuing to meet statutory
obligations. The RFI follows recent executive orders from President Trump focused on
unleashing American energy, promoting lawful and efficient regulation, and reducing costs associated with compliance. DOI is specifically requesting input from entities affected by its regulations on how to streamline, update, or eliminate rules that may be outdated, overly complex, or inconsistent with the Administration’s policy directives. Comments are due by June
20, 2025.
OPM Unveils New Federal Hiring Guidelines. On May 29, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) released new merit-based hiring rules that overhaul how federal agencies recruit and assess job applicants. This plan follows the enactment of the 2024 Chance to
Compete Act, which requires agencies to prioritize skills-based hiring by incorporating technical
assessments and reducing reliance on self-evaluations and academic credentials. The guidance requires agencies to assess candidates using at least one technical or alternative test and reduce average time-to-hire to under 80 days. It also restricts the use of race or gender in hiring decisions and ends public reporting of workforce demographic data. In addition, most
applicants will now be required to answer four short essay questions, including prompts on
their views on executive orders and how they would improve government efficiency. Critics argue the questions could politicize hiring for civil service jobs that are intended to be nonpartisan. OPM officials say the approach reflects standard hiring practices aimed at evaluating candidate fit.
OPM Issues Guidance on Senior Executive Service Hiring. On May 29, OPM issued guidance to reform how federal agencies hire and develop Senior Executive Service (SES) leaders. The memo replaces longform applications with shorter, resume-only submissions and introduces updated qualifications focused on efficiency, performance, and commitment to
constitutional principles. Agencies must also adopt skills-based assessments and align training programs with administration priorities. Additionally, Executive Resources Boards—typically a mix of career and non-career senior officials—are directed to take a more active role in long-term SES workforce planning and oversight. The changes are effective by October 1, 2025. Trump Administration Terminates Digital Equity Act Grants. On May 8, President Trump announced he would terminate grants awarded under the Digital Equity Act, a $2.75 billion program authorized by the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. In a notice sent to grantees, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) stated that the program had been determined to include impermissible preferences and would be
discontinued. While over $600 million in awards had been announced under the competitive grant program, only a small number of recipients had finalized contracts. The decision has
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sparked criticism from Democratic lawmakers and digital inclusion advocates, with several organizations indicating they plan to challenge the termination in court.
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Exhibit 2
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June 11, 2025
City of Carlsbad
Federal Legislation
www.carpiclay.com
Introduction
The memo below provides information on five different bills pending in the 119th Congress that
may be of interest to the City. Should the City choose to take a position on any of the bills listed
below, Carpi & Clay will work with City staff to draft letters from the City and transmit to the
relevant Congressional offices.
Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act
The Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act (H.R. 973) would require the
Consumer Product Safety Commission to issue a final consumer product safety rule for
rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in micromobility devices, such as electric bikes and
electric scooters. Specifically, the rule must require manufacturers and distributors of such
products to comply with the applicable safety standards established by the American National
Standards Institute. The bill is introduced by Rep. Richie Torres (D-NY) and has 23 bipartisan
cosponsors (6 Republicans and 17 Democrats). The bill passed the House at the end of April and
is currently pending in the Senate.
Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act of 2025
The Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act of 2025 (H.R. 2786) would revitalize federal efforts to
strengthen and protect lagoons and estuaries. This bill would reauthorize and enhance the
Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program (CELCP) and require the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration to work toward designating five new National Estuarine Research
Reserves and to enhance the Reserve System. Congress established the CELCP to provide grants
to state and local governments to protect coastal and estuarine areas deemed to have
conservation, recreation, ecological, historical, or aesthetic value. The Resilient Coasts and
Estuaries Act would revive funding for CELCP at $60 million per year and expand the eligibility for
program to include nongovernmental organizations. The bill is introduced by Rep. Mike Levin (D-
CA) and has 9 bipartisan cosponsors (5 Republicans and 4 Democrats). The bill is currently
pending before the House Natural Resources Committee.
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Cutting Lead Exposure and Aviation Relief Skies Act
The Cutting Lead Exposure and Aviation Relief Skies Act (H.R. 2932) aims to protect the health of
communities near airports by reducing harmful lead emissions from aviation fuel and
accelerating the transition to unleaded alternatives. The legislation would establish a federal tax
credit starting at $1.25 per gallon for domestic producers of unleaded avgas, gradually phasing
down through 2030. The bill also directs the Government Accountability Office to study the
effectiveness of the credit and track market pricing differences between leaded and unleaded
aviation fuels. The bill is introduced by Reps. Robert Garcia (D-CA) and Jay Obernolte (R-CA). The
bill is currently pending before the House Ways and Means Committee.
Stop Child Hunger Act
The Cutting Lead Exposure and Aviation Relief Skies Act (H.R. 3217) would provide families who
have children eligible for free and reduced-price school meals with an electronic benefit transfer
(EBT) card to use when school is not in session. The EBT card could be used during summer or
winter break, or when schools are operating remotely or are closed for a natural disaster. The bill
was introduced by Reps. Mike Levin (D-CA) and Jahana Hayes (D-CT). The bill is currently pending
before the House Education and Workforce Committee. A companion bill was also introduced in
the Senate by Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA).
Water Systems PFAS Liability Protection Act
The Water Systems PFAS Liability Protection Act (H.R 1267) would ensure that water utilities can
continue to focus their efforts on maintaining water quality rather than defending themselves
when PFAS polluters seek to dilute their liability. The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA)
Designation of Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctanesulfonic Acid (PFOS) as
Hazardous Substances under the under the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) final rule does not provide liability protections for
public water utilities. EPA has signaled that it intends to employ “enforcement discretion” and not
pursue CERCLA clean-up liability against drinking water and wastewater systems related to PFAS.
However, EPA’s intent does not protect against third-party CERCLA claims. The bill is introduced
by Reps. Marie Gluesenkamp-Perez (D-OR) and Celeste Maloy (R-UT) and has 17 bipartisan
cosponsors (9 Republicans and 8 Democrats). The bill is currently pending before the House
Energy & Commerce and Transportation & Infrastructure Committees.
## ## ##
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 15 of 52
1127 11TH STREET, SUITE 300, SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 • 916.974.9270 • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM PAGE 1
Date: June 5, 2025
To: Jason Haber, Intergovernmental Affairs Director
Cindie McMahon, City Attorney
City of Carlsbad
From: Sharon Gonsalves
Managing Director
California Public Policy Group
Re: CPPG Legislative Summary – May 2025
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Lawmakers Work to Meet Legislative and Fiscal Deadlines
•Governor Gavin Newsom released the May revision to the fiscal year 2025-26 January budget
proposal on May 15.
•Policy committees had until May 16 to advance bills to the Floor, and fiscal committees had
until May 23.
•Budget committees held final hearings in late May to finalize language and ensure that the
Legislature passes a primary budget bill by June 15.
•Legislators met for long hours during the last week of May and the first week of June to
deliberate on hundreds of bills on the Floor before the house of origin deadline on June 6.
Committee meetings will resume on June 9. Bills must be approved by both houses of the Legislature
by September 12 to advance to the Governor’s desk, where they will be either approved or vetoed by
October 12.
As of June 4, approximately 1,500 pieces of legislation of the more than 2,700 introduced since the
start of the session are still progressing through the legislative process. Moving forward, it is likely
that more bills will be halted in policy and fiscal committees, as well as on the Floor.
FAIR Plan Oversight Hearing
On May 28, the Assembly Insurance Committee held an oversight hearing on the California FAIR
Plan. FAIR Plan President Victoria Roach provided an overview of the Plan’s purpose, background,
and current challenges. President Roach noted that, originally created as a temporary safety net to
ensure insurance availability to consumers, the FAIR Plan now covers $599 billion in statewide risk
exposure and accepts properties regardless of wildfire risk. Roach emphasized the plan’s dramatic
growth since 2018—now at 575,000 policies—including in low-wildfire-risk areas due to a lack of
market alternatives. She noted that although it was never intended to be a permanent or competitive
option, it is increasingly serving as both. Roach also discussed legislative efforts like AB 290 (Bauer-
Kahan) and SB 525 (Jones) that could expand the Plan, and highlighted the importance of actuarially
sound rates and new tools such as a clearinghouse and Sustainable Insurance Strategy (SIS) to
support stability and eventual depopulation of the plan.
Exhibit 3
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 16 of 52
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
1127 11TH STREET, SUITE 300, SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 • 916.974.9270 • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM PAGE 2
Assemblymember Harabedian (D-Pasadena) questioned the long-term viability of the FAIR Plan, to
which Roach responded that while it remains viable with industry backing, it cannot sustain itself
alone and must transition policyholders back to the private market. Roach cited insurer withdrawal
and limited underwriting as key reasons why consumers, even in low-risk areas, are turning to the
FAIR Plan—often because it is their only option and offers lower premiums, currently averaging
$2,800.
The hearing’s agenda can be found here and background materials can be found here.
The FAIR Plan presentation for the hearing can be found here.
ADMINISTRATION UPDATE
Reauthorization of Cap-and-Trade
In April, Governor Gavin Newsom and legislative leadership announced that they would seek an
extension of the state’s cap-and-trade program. The program “establishes a declining limit on major
sources of greenhouse gas emissions” throughout the state and is “a key element of California’s
strategy” to reduce emissions. The program’s revenue is spent through the Greenhouse Gas
Reduction Fund. The Governor announced in May that “nearly $33 billion has been raised from
polluters to fund climate solutions.” $18 billion has been used to fund various projects, including
those that reduce emissions, such as bike lanes and other clean transportation. An additional $15
billion has funded bill credits to utility customers. The program began in 2012 and is currently set to
expire in 2030. A deal to extend the program is expected between the Governor and the Legislature
by the end of the legislative session on September 12.
CPPG ACTIVITY
CPPG continues to review priority bills—keeping City staff apprised of developments on legislation
during our standing meetings and throughout the month as needed. CPPG continues to work hand
in hand with City staff to gather City-specific information while actively engaging with lawmakers and
agency officials on legislation of interest to the City. CPPG has marked 93 bills as “priority” for the
City and will continue to bring bills of potential interest to staff for review in the coming weeks.
Active Positioned Legislation
• AB 87 (Boerner) Housing development: density bonuses: mixed-use developments.
Location: 05/21/2025 - Senate Housing
Position: Watch
• AB 237 (Patel) Crimes: threats.
Location: 06/03/2025 - Senate DESK
Position: Watch
• AB 253 (Ward) California Residential Private Permitting Review Act: residential building
permits.
Location: 04/23/2025 - Senate Local Government
Position: Oppose
• AB 259 (Rubio, Blanca) Open meetings: local agencies: teleconferences.
Location: 05/14/2025 - Senate Local Government
Position: Support
• AB 306 (Schultz) Building regulations: state building standards.
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 17 of 52
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
1127 11TH STREET, SUITE 300, SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 • 916.974.9270 • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM PAGE 3
Location: 04/23/2025 - Senate Housing
Position: Oppose
• AB 424 (Davies) Alcohol and other drug programs: complaints.
Location: 05/28/2025 - Senate Rules
Position: Support
• AB 492 (Valencia) Alcohol and drug programs: licensing.
Location: 05/14/2025 - Senate Health
Position: Support
• AB 532 (Ransom) Water rate assistance program.
Location: 06/03/2025 - Senate DESK
Position: Watch
• AB 610 (Alvarez) Housing element: governmental constraints: disclosure statement.
Location: 05/27/2025 - Assembly THIRD READING
Position: Oppose
• AB 650 (Papan) Planning and zoning: housing element: regional housing needs allocation.
Location: 06/03/2025 - Senate Rules
Position: Support
• AB 996 (Pellerin) Public Resources: sea level rise plans.
Location: 06/03/2025 - Senate Rules
Position: Watch
• AB 1154 (Carrillo) Accessory dwelling units: junior accessory dwelling units.
Location: 05/07/2025 - Senate Housing
Position: Watch
• SB 9 (Arreguín) Accessory Dwelling Units: ordinances.
Location: 05/28/2025 - Assembly DESK
Position: Watch
• SB 16 (Blakespear) Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention program: housing
element: unsheltered and chronic homelessness: assessment and financing plan.
Location: 06/03/2025 - Assembly DESK
Position: Watch
• SB 35 (Umberg) Alcohol and drug programs.
Location: 05/29/2025 - Assembly DESK
Position: Support
• SB 79 (Wiener) Housing development: transit-oriented development: California
Environmental Quality Act: public transit agency land.
Location: 06/03/2025 - Assembly DESK
Position: Oppose
• SB 92 (Blakespear) Housing development: density bonuses.
Location: 05/28/2025 - Assembly DESK
Position: Watch
• SB 329 (Blakespear) Alcohol and drug recovery or treatment facilities: investigations.
Location: 05/29/2025 - Assembly DESK
Position: Support
• SB 346 (Durazo) Local agencies: transient occupancy taxes: short-term rental facilitator.
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 18 of 52
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
1127 11TH STREET, SUITE 300, SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 • 916.974.9270 • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM PAGE 4
Location: 05/27/2025 - Assembly DESK
Position: Support
• SB 358 (Becker) Mitigation Fee Act: mitigating vehicular traffic impacts.
Location: 06/02/2025 - Assembly DESK
Position: Oppose
• SB 569 (Blakespear) Department of Transportation: homeless encampments.
Location: 05/23/2025 - Senate THIRD READING
Position: Support
• SB 707 (Durazo) Open meetings: meeting and teleconference requirements.
Location: 06/03/2025 - Assembly DESK
Position: Watch
• SB 741 (Blakespear) Coastal resources: coastal development permit: exemption: Los
Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo Rail Corridor.
Location: 05/27/2025 - Assembly DESK
Position: Support
LOOKING FORWARD
• June 6: Last day for the Legislature to pass bills out of their house of origin
• June 15: Legislature must pass the primary budget bill
• June 30: Governor must sign the primary budget bill
• July 21-August 15: Summer Recess
• September 12: Last day for the Legislature to pass bills
• October 12: Last day for the Governor to sign or veto bills
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 19 of 52
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
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Exhibit 4
City of Carlsbad Priority Bill List 6/12/2025
Children, Youth and Recreation
AB 385 (Ramos) Regional park property: County of San Bernardino: Glen Helen Regional Park.
(Amended 04/22/2025)
Would authorize the County of San Bernardino to dispose of up to 4.2 acres of property at Glen
Helen Regional Park, including property acquired or improved with grant moneys from the above
act, subject to the acquisition of replacement park property of equal or greater recreational value
approved by the Department of Parks and Recreation, to be used for park purposes and at no cost
to the state or the county, as provided. (Based on 04/22/2025 text)
Status: 06/04/2025 - Referred to Com. on L. GOV.
Location: 06/04/2025 - L. GOV.
AB 518 (Ward) Low-impact camping areas. (Amended 05/07/2025)
The Special Occupancy Parks Act establishes requirements for the construction, maintenance,
occupancy, use, and design of special occupancy parks. Existing law defines “special occupancy
park” to mean a recreational vehicle park, temporary recreational vehicle park, incidental camping
area, or tent camp. This bill would specify that, for purposes of that act, a special occupancy park
does not include a low-impact camping area, as specified, that is located in a county that has
enacted an ordinance, as specified, authorizing low-impact camping. The bill would define a “low-
impact camping area” to mean any area of private property that provides for the transient
occupancy rental of a temporary sleeping accommodation, as defined, for recreational purposes
that is not a commercial lodging facility and meets specified requirements. The bill would require
the county in which the low-impact camping area is located to enforce some of those
requirements, relating to waste disposal and quiet hours, as specified. The bill would require that a
county that has authorized low-impact camping to take specified actions, including, among others,
to establish a registry of low-impact camping areas, as specified. (Based on 05/07/2025 text)
Status: 05/21/2025 - Referred to Com. on HOUSING.
Location: 05/21/2025 - HOUSING
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 20 of 52
( City of
Carlsbad
Cal i fornia
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
1127 11TH STREET, SUITE 300, SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 • 916.974.9270 • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM PAGE 2
AB 616 (Caloza) Department of Parks and Recreation: state parks: California State Library
Parks Pass Program. (Amended 05/23/2025)
Under current law, the Department of Parks and Recreation controls the state park system, which
is made up of units. Current law establishes the California State Library within state government
and vests control of the library to the State Librarian. Current law authorizes the State Librarian to,
among other things, purchase and maintain materials and equipment as necessary to carry out
California State Library programs and services consistent with well-established library standards.
The Budget Act of 2024 appropriated money to the department to be available to support the
California State Library Parks Pass Program. This bill would authorize the department, at its
discretion, and upon appropriation by the Legislature for this purpose, to issue vehicle day use
annual passes, free of charge, to the California State Library to support the California State Library
Parks Pass Program. (Based on 05/23/2025 text)
Status: 06/04/2025 - In Senate. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment.
Location: 06/04/2025 - RLS.
AB 708 (Valencia) California Youth Football Act: safety equipment. (Amended 03/27/2025)
The California Youth Football Act requires a youth sports organization that conducts a tackle
football program to comply with certain requirements. This bill would require a youth tackle
football league, youth sports organization that conducts a tackle football program, or coach of a
youth sports organization to allow youth tackle football participants to use safety equipment,
including soft-shelled add-ons on football helmets. The bill would authorize a court to grant
injunctive relief to remedy a violation or threatened violation of this requirement, and would entitle
a prevailing plaintiff who obtains injunctive relief to reasonable attorney’s fees and costs. (Based
on 03/27/2025 text)
Status: 05/07/2025 - Referred to Coms. on HEALTH, JUD. and APPR.
Calendar: 06/11/25 S-HEALTH 1:30 p.m. - 1021 O Street, Room 1200 MENJIVAR, CAROLINE, Chair
Location: 05/07/2025 - HEALTH
AB 749 (McKinnor) Youth Sports for All Act. (Amended 05/23/2025)
Current law provides various programs for youth and adolescent health, including requiring a youth
sports organization that elects to offer an athletic program to ensure athletes have access to an
automated external defibrillator during official practice and regulating youth football. Current law
also authorizes a community youth athletic program to request state and federal level criminal
history information for volunteer or hired coach candidates. This bill, the Youth Sports for All Act,
would require the Secretary of California Health and Human Services and other relevant agencies
or departments as determined by the Secretary, to, on or before March 1, 2026, establish and
convene the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth
Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity to conduct a comprehensive study on the need for and
feasibility of creating a centralized entity charged with supporting and regulating youth sports, as
provided. The bill would require the commission to, on or before January 1, 2027, submit the study
to the Legislature and the Governor. The bill would make its provisions contingent upon an
appropriation by the Legislature or upon the California Health and Human Services Agency
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 21 of 52
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
1127 11TH STREET, SUITE 300, SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 • 916.974.9270 • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM PAGE 3
obtaining sufficient funds from federal, nonprofit, or private sources. The bill would create the
Youth Sports Blue Ribbon Commission Fund in the State Treasury and would authorize moneys in
the account to be expended by the agency, upon appropriation by the Legislature, for purposes of
the commission. (Based on 05/23/2025 text)
Status: 06/03/2025 - In Senate. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment.
Location: 06/03/2025 - RLS.
AB 769 (Wilson) Regional park and open-space districts. (Amended 05/05/2025)
Current law establishes procedures for the formation of regional park, park and open-space, and
open-space districts and prescribes the powers, functions, and duties of those districts. Current
law requires the board of directors of these districts to appoint a general manager as chief
administrative officer of the district and a controller and authorizes appointment of other
subordinate officers, as provided. This bill would consolidate and modify roles and compensation
of board-appointed officers, as specified. (Based on 05/05/2025 text)
Status: 05/21/2025 - Referred to Com. on L. GOV.
Location: 05/21/2025 - L. GOV.
Position: Support
Notes1:
4/10/25: EN tagged as support. CARPD signed onto EBRPD coalition letter. Sponsored by EBRPD.
4/17/25: CARPD Legislative Committee approved support position. 4/30/25: CP testified in support
in Asm LG.
AB 785 (Sharp-Collins) Community Violence Interdiction Grant Program. (Amended
04/09/2025)
Current law establishes the California Violence Intervention and Prevention Grant Program,
administered by the Board of State and Community Corrections, to award competitive grants for
the purpose of violence intervention and prevention. Current law establishes the Youth
Reinvestment Grant Program within the Board of State and Community Corrections to grant funds,
upon appropriation, to local jurisdictions and Indian tribes for the purpose of implementing
trauma-informed diversion programs for minors, as specified. Current law requires the governing
board of a school district to give diligent care to the health and physical development of pupils and
authorizes the governing board of a school district to employ properly certified persons for the
work. Current law requires a school of a school district or county office of education and a charter
school to notify pupils and parents or guardians of pupils no less than twice during the school year
on how to initiate access to available pupil mental health services on campus or in the community,
or both, as provided. Current law requires the State Department of Public Health, in cooperation
with the State Department of Education, to establish a Public School Health Center Support
Program, upon appropriation by the Legislature, to assist school health centers, which are defined
as centers or programs, located at or near local educational agencies, that provide age-appropriate
health care services at the program site or through referrals, as specified. This bill would create the
Community Violence Interdiction Grant Program to be administered by the California Health and
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 22 of 52
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
1127 11TH STREET, SUITE 300, SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 • 916.974.9270 • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM PAGE 4
Human Services Agency to provide funding to local community programs for community-driven
solutions to decrease violence in neighborhoods and schools. The bill would specify the types of
programs the grant funds may be used for, including, but not limited to, programs that create and
enhance recreation- and health-based interventions for youth during peak times of violence and
the creation and operation of school-based health centers. (Based on 04/09/2025 text)
Status: 06/03/2025 - In Senate. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment.
Location: 06/03/2025 - RLS.
SB 392 (Grayson) Regional park districts: East Bay Regional Park District: East Bay Hills
Conservation Program. (Amended 04/23/2025)
Current law establishes procedures for the formation of regional park districts and prescribes the
powers, functions, and duties of those districts. The East Bay Regional Park District is one such
regional park district. This bill would authorize the East Bay Regional Park District to establish and
administer the East Bay Hills Conservation Program to address resource and recreational goals of
the East Bay Hills, as defined. The bill would authorize the Park District to collaborate with
California Native American tribes and state, regional, and local partners to help achieve specified
goals of the program. The bill would require the East Bay Hills to be acknowledged as an area of
statewide significance in local planning documents developed or updated on or after January 1,
2026, affecting land use within the East Bay Hills. To the extent that this bill would impose new
duties on local entities, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. (Based
on 04/23/2025 text)
Status: 05/29/2025 - Referred to Com. on L. GOV.
Location: 05/29/2025 - L. GOV.
Position: Support
Notes1:
3/21/25: Matt confirmed support in an email. EN tagged as support. CARPD signed onto EBRPD
coalition letter. Sponsored by EBRPD. 4/17/25: CARPD Legislative Committee approved support
position.
SB 492 (Menjivar) Youth Housing Bond Act of 2025. (Introduced 02/19/2025)
Would enact the Youth Housing Bond Act of 2025 (bond act), which, if adopted, would authorize
the issuance of bonds in the amount of $____ pursuant to the State General Obligation Bond Law to
finance the Youth Housing Program, established as part of the bond act. The bill, as a part of the
program, would require the Department of Housing and Community Development to make awards
to local agencies, nonprofit organizations, and joint ventures for the purpose of acquiring,
renovating, constructing, and purchasing equipment for youth centers or youth housing, as those
terms are defined. This bill would provide for submission of the bond act to the voters at the
November 3, 2026, statewide general election in accordance with specified law. (Based
on 02/19/2025 text)
Status: 02/20/2025 - From printer. May be acted upon on or after March 22.
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 23 of 52
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
1127 11TH STREET, SUITE 300, SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 • 916.974.9270 • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM PAGE 5
Location: 02/19/2025 - RLS.
Position: Watch
Notes1:
3/6/25: CARPD Legislative Committee voted to watch. EN tagged as watch.
Emergency Response and Disaster Preparedness
AB 66 (Tangipa) California Environmental Quality Act: exemption: egress route projects: fire
safety. (Amended 02/24/2025)
Would, until January 1, 2032, exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) egress
route projects undertaken by a public agency to improve emergency access to and evacuation
from a subdivision without a secondary egress route if the State Board of Forestry and Fire
Protection has recommended the creation of a secondary access to the subdivision and certain
conditions are met. The bill would require the lead agency to hold a noticed public meeting to hear
and respond to public comments before determining that a project is exempt. The bill would
require the lead agency, if it determines that a project is not subject to CEQA and approves or
carries out that project, to file a notice of exemption with the Office of Land Use and Climate
Innovation and with the clerk of the county in which the project will be located. (Based
on 02/24/2025 text)
Status: 06/09/2025 - In Senate. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment.
Location: 06/09/2025 - RLS.
AB 846 (Connolly) Endangered species: incidental take: wildfire preparedness activities.
(Amended 05/23/2025)
The California Endangered Species Act prohibits the taking of an endangered, threatened, or
candidate species, except as specified. Under the act, the Department of Fish and Wildlife
(department) may authorize the take of listed species by certain entities through permits or
memorandums of understanding for specified purposes. Current law requires the State Fire
Marshal to identify areas in the state as moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones
based on consistent statewide criteria and based on the severity of fire hazard that is expected to
prevail in those areas. Existing law requires a local agency to designate, by ordinance, moderate,
high, and very high fire hazard severity zones in its jurisdiction within 120 days of receiving
recommendations from the State Fire Marshal, as provided. This bill would authorize a city, county,
city and county, special district, or other local agency to submit to the department a wildfire
preparedness plan to conduct wildfire preparedness activities on land designated as a fire hazard
severity zone, as defined, that minimizes impacts to wildlife and habitat for candidate, threatened,
and endangered species. The bill would require the wildfire preparedness plan to include, among
other things, a brief description of the planned wildfire preparedness activities, the approximate
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 24 of 52
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
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dates for the activities, and a description of the candidate, endangered, and threatened species
within the plan area. The bill would authorize the department to impose a fee on a local agency for
the cost of reviewing a wildfire preparedness plan submitted by that local agency, as specified. The
bill would require the department, if sufficient information is included in the wildfire preparedness
plan for the department to determine if an incidental take permit is required, to notify the local
agency within 90 days of receipt of the wildfire preparedness plan if an incidental take permit or
other permit is needed, or if there are other considerations, exemptions, or streamlined pathways
that the wildfire preparedness activities qualify for, including, but not limited to, the State Board of
Forestry and Fire Protection’s California Vegetation Treatment Program. The bill would require the
department to provide the local agency, in its notification, with guidance that includes, among
other things, a description of the candidate, endangered, and threatened species within the plan
area and measures to avoid, minimize, and fully mitigate the take of the candidate, threatened, and
endangered species, as provided. (Based on 05/23/2025 text)
Status: 06/03/2025 - In Senate. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment.
Location: 06/03/2025 - RLS.
SB 499 (Stern) Residential projects: fees and charges: emergency services. (Amended
05/08/2025)
Existing law, the Mitigation Fee Act, imposes various requirements with respect to the
establishment, increase, or imposition of a fee by a local agency as a condition of approval of a
development project. If a local agency imposes any fees or charges on designated residential
developments for the construction of public improvements or facilities, existing law imposes
various conditions on the fees and charges. Among these conditions, existing law prohibits the
local agency from requiring the payment of those fees or charges until the date the first certificate
of occupancy or first temporary certificate of occupancy is issued, whichever occurs first, except
as specified. Existing law authorizes a local agency to require the payment of those fees or charges
earlier if the local agency determines, among other things, that the fees or charges will be collected
for, among other types of public improvements or facilities, public improvements or facilities
related to providing fire, public safety, and emergency services to the residential development. This
bill would specify that the public improvements or facilities related to providing fire, public safety,
and emergency services for which a local agency may require the earlier payment of fees and
charges under the above-described provisions include parkland and recreational facilities
identified in the local agency’s safety element for an emergency purpose, as specified. The bill
would authorize a local hazard mitigation plan to be used in lieu of a safety element for this
purpose until January 1, 2031. (Based on 05/08/2025 text)
Status: 06/05/2025 - Referred to Com. on L. GOV.
Location: 06/05/2025 - L. GOV.
Position: Sponsor
Notes1:
3/26/25: Bill was amended; EN tagged as sponsor. 4/21/25: EN submitted sponsor letter to Senate
Local Government and sent to Matt. 5/7/25: DH gave primary witness support testimony in in
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 25 of 52
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
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Senate Local Government, along with Dave Winnacker, and EN gave me too support testimony for
individual RPDs listed in the analysis.
Energy and Utilities
SB 453 (Stern) Microgrid incentive program. (Amended 05/23/2025)
(2)Existing law requires the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), in consultation with the State
Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission and the Independent System
Operator, to take specified actions by December 1, 2020, to facilitate the commercialization of
microgrids for distribution customers of large electrical corporations, including, among other
actions, by, without shifting costs between ratepayers, developing methods to reduce barriers for
microgrid deployment. Under existing law, the PUC requires certain large electrical corporations to
jointly develop a Microgrid Incentive Program to fund clean energy microgrids to support the critical
needs of vulnerable populations impacted by a grid outage. This bill would require the PUC to
require each electrical corporation to provide to the commission, on or before January 15, 2026,
the status of any awarded or unallocated funds collected for the Microgrid Incentive Program. The
bill would require the commission, after reviewing that information, if it determines additional
actions are needed, to consider the use of a third-party administrator and to ensure that
unallocated funds are allocated to areas that have experienced 2 or more deenergization events,
prioritizing vulnerable communities, including access and functional needs populations, and
prioritizing customers that operate critical community infrastructure that supports resiliency
during a deenergization event. This bill contains other existing laws. (Based on 05/23/2025 text)
Status: 06/05/2025 - In Assembly. Read first time. Held at Desk.
Location: 06/04/2025 - DESK
Position: Support
Notes1:
4/17/25: CARPD Legislative Committee approved support position; EN tagged as support. 4/22/25:
EN submitted support letter to Sen Energy, Utilities and Communications and sent to Matt.
4/29/25: EN testified in support in Senate Energy.
Environment and Climate
AB 734 (Schultz) Environmental protection: biological resources data: State Energy Resources
Conservation and Development Commission: powerplants: power lines: applications.
(Amended 04/21/2025)
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 26 of 52
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Current law vests the State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission with
the power to certify locations on which an electrical transmission line or thermal powerplant is
constructed, or is proposed to be constructed, except as provided. Current law authorizes the
commission to exempt from certification a thermal powerplant with a generating capacity of up to
100 megawatts, and modifications to existing generating facilities that do not add capacity in
excess of 100 megawatts, if the commission finds that no substantial adverse impact on the
environment or energy resources will result from the construction or operation of the proposed
facility or from the modifications. This bill would require any biological resources data submitted to
the commission in an application for certification or small powerplant exemption pursuant to the
above-described provisions to be made publicly available on the commission’s docket as part of
the certification proceeding unless the Department of Fish and Wildlife makes a written
determination that the data to be made public includes specified location data, the disclosure of
which would pose a significant risk to individuals of the species. The bill would require the
department, if it makes that determination, to include in the written determination an assessment
of the maximum amount of the specified data that can be released without posing a risk to the
species. (Based on 04/21/2025 text)
Status: 06/03/2025 - In Senate. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment.
Location: 06/03/2025 - RLS.
AB 1139 (Rogers) California Environmental Quality Act: exemption: public access:
nonmotorized recreation. (Amended 04/09/2025)
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) exempts from its requirements a change in use
approved by a lead agency that is a park district or the Great Redwood Trail Agency to allow public
access to preexisting paved and natural surface roads, preexisting trails, preexisting pathways,
preexisting disturbed areas for vehicle parking, as specified, and rail lines converted by the Great
Redwood Trail Agency into trails known as the Great Redwood Trail, in areas used exclusively for
nonmotorized recreation, if certain conditions are met. Current law requires the lead agency, if the
lead agency determines that a change in use is not subject to CEQA pursuant to this exemption and
determines to approve or carry out the activity, to file a notice with the State Clearinghouse in the
Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation and with the county clerk of the county in which the land
is located, as provided. This bill would extend the above exemption to a lead agency that is a
county park agency. By imposing duties on public agencies related to the exemption, this bill would
create a state-mandated local program. (Based on 04/09/2025 text)
Status: 06/04/2025 - Referred to Coms. on E.Q. and N.R. & W.
Calendar: 06/18/25 S-ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY 9 a.m. - 1021 O Street, Room 1200
BLAKESPEAR, CATHERINE, Chair
Location: 06/04/2025 - E.Q.
SB 676 (Limón) California Environmental Quality Act: judicial streamlining: state of
emergency: fire. (Amended 03/24/2025)
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires a lead agency, as defined, to prepare, or
cause to be prepared, and certify the completion of an environmental impact report on a project
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 27 of 52
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that it proposes to carry out or approve that may have a significant effect on the environment or to
adopt a negative declaration if it finds that the project will not have that effect. CEQA also requires
a lead agency to prepare a mitigated negative declaration for a project that may have a significant
effect on the environment if revisions in the project would avoid or mitigate that effect and there is
no substantial evidence that the project, as revised, would have a significant effect on the
environment. This bill would require, for a project located in a geographic area that was damaged
by fire for which the Governor declared a state of emergency on or after January 1, 2023, and the
project is not otherwise exempt from CEQA, as specified, the lead agency to prepare the record of
proceeding concurrently with the administrative process. The bill would also require an action or
proceeding brought to attack, review, set aside, void, or annul the certification of an environmental
impact report, or the adoption of a negative declaration or mitigation negative declaration, for the
project to be resolved, to the extent feasible, within 270 calendar days of the filing of the certified
record of proceedings. The bill would require the project to be consistent with the applicable
zoning and land use ordinances. By requiring a lead agency to prepare the record of proceedings
concurrently with the administrative process, this bill would impose a state-mandated local
program. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the
California Constitution because a local agency or school district has the authority to levy service
charges, fees, or assessments sufficient to pay for the program or level of service mandated by this
act, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code. The California Constitution
requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by
the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would
provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason. (Based
on 03/24/2025 text)
Status: 06/09/2025 - Referred to Coms. on NAT. RES. and JUD.
Location: 06/09/2025 - NAT. RES.
Governmental Operations
AB 339 (Ortega) Local public employee organizations: notice requirements. (Amended
05/23/2025)
The Meyers-Milias-Brown Act contains various provisions that govern collective bargaining of local
represented employees and delegates jurisdiction to the Public Employment Relations Board to
resolve disputes and enforce the statutory duties and rights of local public agency employers and
employees. Current law requires the governing body of a public agency to meet and confer in good
faith regarding wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment with representatives
of recognized employee organizations. Current law requires the governing body of a public agency,
and boards and commissions designated by law or by the governing body, to give reasonable
written notice, except in cases of emergency, as specified, to each recognized employee
organization affected of any ordinance, rule, resolution, or regulation directly relating to matters
within the scope of representation proposed to be adopted by the governing body or the designated
boards and commissions. This bill would require the governing body of a public agency, and boards
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 28 of 52
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and commissions designated by law or by the governing body of a public agency, to give the
recognized employee organization no less than 120 days’ written notice before issuing a request for
proposals, request for quotes, or renewing or extending an existing contract to perform services
that are within the scope of work of the job classifications represented by the recognized employee
organization. The bill would require the notice to include specified information, including the
anticipated duration of the contract. The bill would also require the public agency, if an emergency
or other exigent circumstance prevents the public agency from providing the written notice
described above, to provide as much advance notice as is practicable under the
circumstances. (Based on 05/23/2025 text)
Status: 06/03/2025 - In Senate. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment.
Location: 06/03/2025 - RLS.
Position: Oppose
Notes1:
3/6/25: CARPD Legislative Committee voted to oppose. EN tagged as oppose. CARPD signed onto
Urban Counties coalition oppose letter. 4/7/25: EN received oppose coalition letter and sent to
Matt. 5/28/25: EN received coalition Floor alert and sent to Matt.
AB 340 (Ahrens) Employer-employee relations: confidential communications. (Amended
03/05/2025)
Current law that governs the labor relations of public employees and employers, including, among
others, the Meyers-Milias-Brown Act, the Ralph C. Dills Act, provisions relating to public schools,
and provisions relating to higher education, prohibits employers from taking certain actions relating
to employee organization, including imposing or threatening to impose reprisals on employees,
discriminating or threatening to discriminate against employees, or otherwise interfering with,
restraining, or coercing employees because of their exercise of their guaranteed rights. Those
provisions of current law further prohibit denying to employee organizations the rights guaranteed
to them by current law. This bill would prohibit a public employer from questioning a public
employee, a representative of a recognized employee organization, or an exclusive representative
regarding communications made in confidence between an employee and an employee
representative in connection with representation relating to any matter within the scope of the
recognized employee organization’s representation. (Based on 03/05/2025 text)
Status: 06/04/2025 - In Senate. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment.
Location: 06/04/2025 - RLS.
Position: Oppose
Notes1:
3/11/25: Matt said in an email that CARPD would oppose. EN tagged as oppose. CARPD signed
onto CSDA coalition oppose letter. 3/13/25: EN received final coalition letters and sent to Matt.
3/19/25: CS testified in opposition in Asm. Appropriations Committee. 4/18/25: EN received final
coalition letter and sent to Matt. 5/28/25: EN received coalition Floor alert and sent to Matt.
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 29 of 52
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AB 370 (Carrillo) California Public Records Act: cyberattacks. (Amended 03/12/2025)
The California Public Records Act requires state and local agencies to make their records available
for public inspection, except as specified. Current law requires each agency, within 10 days of a
request for a copy of records, to determine whether the request seeks copies of disclosable public
records in possession of the agency and to promptly notify the person of the determination and the
reasons therefor. Current law authorizes that time limit to be extended by no more than 14 days
under unusual circumstances, and defines “unusual circumstances” to include, among other
things, the need to search for, collect, and appropriately examine records during a state of
emergency when the state of emergency currently affects the agency’s ability to timely respond to
requests due to staffing shortages or closure of facilities, as provided. This bill would also expand
the definition of unusual circumstances to include the inability of the agency, because of a
cyberattack, to access its electronic servers or systems in order to search for and obtain a record
that the agency believes is responsive to a request and is maintained on the servers or systems in
an electronic format. (Based on 03/12/2025 text)
Status: 05/28/2025 - Referred to Com. on JUD.
Calendar: 06/17/25 S-JUDICIARY 1:30 p.m. - 1021 O Street, Room 2100 UMBERG, THOMAS, Chair
Location: 05/28/2025 - JUD.
Position: Support
Notes1:
4/17/25: CARPD Legislative Committee approved support position; EN tagged as support. CARPD
signed onto CSAC coalition letter. 6/10/25: EN received final coalition letter and sent to Matt.
AB 1109 (Kalra) Evidentiary privileges: union agent-represented worker privilege. (Introduced
02/20/2025)
Current law governs the admissibility of evidence in court proceedings and generally provides a
privilege as to communications made in the course of certain relations, including the attorney-
client, physician-patient, and psychotherapist-patient relationship, as specified. Under current
law, the right of any person to claim those evidentiary privileges is waived with respect to a
communication protected by the privilege if any holder of the privilege, without coercion, has
disclosed a significant part of the communication or has consented to a disclosure. This bill would
establish a privilege between a union agent, as defined, and a represented employee or
represented former employee to refuse to disclose any confidential communication between the
employee or former employee and the union agent made while the union agent was acting in the
union agent’s representative capacity, except as specified. The bill would permit a represented
employee or represented former employee to prevent another person from disclosing a privileged
communication, except as specified. (Based on 02/20/2025 text)
Status: 05/13/2025 - In Senate. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment.
Location: 05/13/2025 - RLS.
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 30 of 52
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Position: Oppose
Notes1:
3/6/25: CARPD Legislative Committee voted to oppose. EN tagged as oppose. CARPD signed onto
CSDA coalition letter. 3/31/25: EN received final coalition letters and sent to Matt. 5/7/25: EN
received floor alert and sent to Matt.
AB 1337 (Ward) Information Practices Act of 1977. (Amended 05/23/2025)
Existing law, the Information Practices Act of 1977, prescribes a set of requirements, prohibitions,
and remedies applicable to agencies, as defined, with regard to their collection, storage, and
disclosure of personal information, as defined. Existing law exempts from the provisions of the act
counties, cities, any city and county, school districts, municipal corporations, districts, political
subdivisions, and other local public agencies, as specified. This bill would recast those provisions
to, among other things, remove that exemption for local agencies, and would revise and expand the
definition of “personal information.” The bill would make other technical, nonsubstantive, and
conforming changes. Because the bill would expand the duties of local officials, this bill would
impose a state-mandated local program. This bill contains other related provisions and other
existing laws. (Based on 05/23/2025 text)
Status: 06/03/2025 - In Senate. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment.
Location: 06/03/2025 - RLS.
SB 369 (Padilla) Salton Sea: restoration projects: skilled and trained workforce. (Amended
03/17/2025)
Current law requires the Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency, in consultation and
coordination with the Salton Sea Authority, to lead Salton Sea restoration efforts. Current law, to
the extent that funding is appropriated to the Department of Fish and Wildlife for Salton Sea
restoration activities, authorizes the Department of Water Resources, in coordination and under
agreement with the Department of Fish and Wildlife, to undertake certain restoration efforts. This
bill would require, except as provided, specified state agencies undertaking a Salton Sea
restoration project to obtain, as part of a contract entered into on or after January 1, 2026, an
enforceable commitment that every bidder, contractor, subcontractor, or other entity at every tier,
as defined, shall use a skilled and trained workforce, as provided, to perform all work that falls
within an apprenticeship occupation in the building and construction trades. (Based
on 03/17/2025 text)
Status: 06/09/2025 - Referred to Coms. on W. P., & W. and L. & E.
Location: 06/09/2025 - W.,P. & W.
SB 413 (Allen) Juveniles: case file inspection. (Introduced 02/14/2025)
Current law generally provides for the confidentiality of information regarding a minor in
proceedings in the juvenile court and related court proceedings and limits access to juvenile case
files, as defined. Current law authorizes only certain individuals to inspect a juvenile case file,
including, among others, the county counsel, city attorney, or any other attorney representing the
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 31 of 52
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petitioning agency in a dependency action. This bill would delete that authority and instead specify
that the county counsel or city attorney representing the county child welfare agency or probation
department may access juvenile case files. (Based on 02/14/2025 text)
Status: 05/12/2025 - Referred to Com. on JUD.
Location: 05/12/2025 - JUD.
SB 464 (Smallwood-Cuevas) Employer pay data. (Amended 05/01/2025)
Current law requires a private employer that has 100 or more employees to submit an annual pay
data report to the Civil Rights Department that includes the number of employees by race,
ethnicity, and sex in specified job categories, whose pay falls within federal pay bands, and within
each job category the median and mean hourly rate for each combination of those characteristics
as specified. This bill would require an employer to collect and store any demographic information
gathered by an employer or labor contractor for the purpose of submitting the pay data report
separately from employees’ personnel records. (Based on 05/01/2025 text)
Status: 06/09/2025 - Referred to Coms. on L. & E. and JUD.
Location: 06/09/2025 - L. & E.
SB 577 (Laird) State Government. (Amended 04/28/2025)
Current law authorizes a trial court to order a party, the party’s attorney, or both, to pay the
reasonable expense incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics, as defined.
Current law provides the court may also award sanctions, as specified. Current law provides that
where the bad faith actions or tactics involve the filing of a pleading that can be withdrawn or
corrected, the filing party shall be provided 21 days in order to do so, prior to award of sanctions
against the filing party, as specified. This bill would provide that bad-faith actions or tactics used on
or after January 1, 2026, in certain civil actions against public entities, do not benefit from the 21-
day safe harbor period to withdraw or correct the bad-faith filings prior to the award of
sanctions. (Based on 04/28/2025 text)
Status: 06/05/2025 - Referred to Com. on JUD.
Location: 06/05/2025 - JUD.
Position: Watch
Notes1:
5/15/25: EN tagged as watch.
SB 827 (Gonzalez) Local agency officials: training. (Amended 05/12/2025)
Current law imposes ethics training on specified local agency officials. Current law requires each
training to be 2 hours and requires the officials to receive each training every 2 years, and as
described otherwise, with the first training within one year of commencing service. Current law
requires the local agency to maintain records of the trainings, as prescribed. This bill would expand
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 32 of 52
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which local agency officials are required to complete the above-described ethics training to
include department heads, or other similar administrative officers, and would instead require
officials who commence service on or after January 1, 2026, to receive their initial training within 6
months of commencing service. The bill would require the local agency to publish the training
records on its internet website, as specified. This bill would additionally require all local agency
officials, as defined, to receive at least 2 hours of fiscal and financial training, as described. The bill
would require the training to be received at least once every 2 years, as provided. The bill would
exempt from these requirements specified local agency officials if they are in compliance with
existing education requirements specific to their positions. (Based on 05/12/2025 text)
Status: 06/05/2025 - Referred to Com. on L. GOV.
Calendar: 06/18/25 A-LOCAL GOVERNMENT 1:30 p.m. - State Capitol, Room 447 CARRILLO,
JUAN, Chair
Location: 06/05/2025 - L. GOV.
Homelessness
SB 692 (Arreguín) Vehicles: homelessness. (Amended 05/23/2025)
Existing law makes it unlawful for a peace officer or an unauthorized person to remove an
unattended vehicle from a highway, except as provided. Under existing law, the removal of a
vehicle is a seizure, subject to the limits set forth in jurisprudence for the Fourth Amendment of the
United States Constitution. Existing law authorizes a city, county, or city and county to adopt an
ordinance establishing procedures for the abatement and removal, as public nuisances, of
abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicles or parts of vehicles from private or public
property. Existing law requires that any ordinance for the removal of abandoned vehicles contain
certain provisions, including a provision exempting vehicles under certain circumstances, and a
provision providing no less than a 10-day notice of intention to abate and remove the vehicle or part
thereof as a public nuisance, unless the property owner and the owner of the vehicle sign releases.
Existing law also exempts from the 10-day notice prior to removal provision, a vehicle meeting
specified requirements, including being valued at less than $200 and being determined to be a
public nuisance, if the property owner has signed a release. This bill would specifically authorize a
local government to perform emergency summary abatement of vehicles creating imminent health
and safety hazards. The bill would modify the exemption from prior 10-day notice of intention to
abate and remove a vehicle to no longer require that both the vehicle be determined to be a public
nuisance and that the property owner sign a release. (Based on 05/23/2025 text)
Status: 06/04/2025 - In Assembly. Read first time. Held at Desk.
Location: 06/03/2025 - DESK
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 33 of 52
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Housing and Land Use
AB 818 (Ávila Farías) Permit Streamlining Act: local emergencies. (Amended 04/24/2025)
The Permit Streamlining Act requires a public agency to determine whether an application for a
development project is complete within specified time periods, as specified. The act requires a
public agency that is the lead agency for a development project to approve or disapprove that
project within specified time periods. Current law, the California Emergency Services Act, among
other things, authorizes a local emergency to be proclaimed by the governing body of a city, county,
or city and county, as specified, and grants political subdivisions various powers and authorities in
periods of local emergency. This bill would require a local agency to approve or disapprove an
application for a permit necessary to rebuild or repair an affected property, as defined and
specified. The bill would require a local agency to approve an application, within 14 days of receipt
of the application, for a construction permit for any of the specified structures intended to be used
by a person until the rebuilding or repair of an affected property is complete. (Based
on 04/24/2025 text)
Status: 06/04/2025 - Referred to Coms. on L. GOV. and HOUSING.
Location: 06/04/2025 - L. GOV.
Position: Watch
Notes1:
3/6/25: CARPD Legislative Committee voted to watch. EN tagged as watch.
AB 1162 (Bonta) Challenges to housing and community-serving projects. (Amended
04/28/2025)
Current law provides that in a civil action brought by a plaintiff to challenge a housing development
project that meets or exceeds the requirements for low- or moderate-income housing, a defendant
may seek an order requiring the plaintiff to furnish an undertaking as security for costs and
damages that may be incurred by the defendant if the bringing of the action would result in
preventing or delaying the project, as specified. Current law authorizes the court to limit the
amount of the undertaking or to decline to require the plaintiff to furnish an undertaking if the court
determines that, based on evidence submitted by the plaintiff, furnishing an undertaking would
cause the plaintiff to suffer undue economic hardship. This bill would expand the type of civil
actions for which motions for undertaking may be filed to include actions that challenge a
community-serving project, as defined. (Based on 04/28/2025 text)
Status: 05/21/2025 - Referred to Coms. on JUD. and APPR.
Location: 05/21/2025 - JUD.
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 34 of 52
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AB 1457 (Bryan) Wildfires: training: defensible space: inspections. (Amended 05/23/2025)
Existing law requires the Director of Forestry and Fire Protection, until January 1, 2026, to establish
a statewide program to allow certain persons and entities that have completed specific training
developed by the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection for these purposes to support and
augment the department in its defensible space and home hardening assessment and education
efforts. Existing law requires the director to establish a common reporting platform that allows
defensible space and home hardening assessment data collected by those persons and entities to
be reported to the department and authorizes the department to use that data to direct its
inspection and enforcement resources and for other specified purposes. This bill would extend the
operation of the program described above indefinitely, and would require the training, beginning
July 1, 2026, to include training consistent with the “Home Ignition Zone/Defensible Space
Inspector” course plan, established by the State Fire Marshal, to ensure that individuals are trained
to conduct home ignition zone inspections. (Based on 05/23/2025 text)
Status: 06/04/2025 - In Senate. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment.
Location: 06/04/2025 - RLS.
SB 358 (Becker) Mitigation Fee Act: mitigating vehicular traffic impacts. (Amended 05/27/2025)
The Mitigation Fee Act imposes various requirements with respect to the establishment, increase,
or imposition of a fee by a local agency as a condition of approval of a development project.
Current law requires a local agency that imposes a fee on a housing development for the purpose
of mitigating vehicular traffic impacts to set the rate for that fee, if the housing development
satisfies all of certain prescribed characteristics, to reflect a lower rate of automobile trip
generation associated with such housing developments in comparison with housing developments
without the prescribed characteristics, unless the local agency adopts findings after a public
hearing establishing that the housing development, even with those characteristics, would not
generate fewer automobile trips than a housing development without those characteristics. This
bill would require those findings to be supported by substantial evidence in the record before or as
part of the housing development project approval process. (Based on 05/27/2025 text)
Status: 06/09/2025 - Referred to Com. on L. GOV.
Location: 06/09/2025 - L. GOV.
SB 534 (Padilla) Green Empowerment Zone for the Salton Sea and Southeastern Desert
Valleys. (Amended 05/08/2025)
Existing law establishes procedures for the formation of infrastructure financing districts,
enhanced infrastructure financing districts, infrastructure and revitalization financing districts,
community revitalization and investment authorities, and public-private partnerships, as specified,
to undertake various economic development projects, including financing public facilities and
infrastructure, affordable housing, and economic revitalization. Existing law, until January 1, 2028,
authorizes the establishment of a Green Empowerment Zone for the Northern Waterfront area of
the County of Contra Costa for the purpose of building upon the comparative advantage provided
by the regional concentration of highly skilled energy industry workers by prioritizing access to tax
incentives, grants, and loan programs, among other incentives. This bill, until January 1, 2035,
would authorize establishment of a Green Empowerment Zone for the Salton Sea and
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 35 of 52
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Southeastern Desert Valleys (empowerment zone). The bill would authorize the empowerment
zone to be composed of specified land and communities within the Imperial, Eastern Coachella,
and Palo Verde Valleys, upon adoption of a resolution by the Imperial County Board of Supervisors,
and would provide for the empowerment zone to be governed by a board of directors, as specified.
The bill would task the empowerment zone with various duties, including, among other things,
identification of projects and programs that will best utilize public dollars, distribute benefits to
disinvested communities, and most quickly improve the economic vitality of California’s
southeastern desert valleys, as specified, in a coordinated effort to support the development and
equitable transition to a clean energy economy. The bill would require the board of directors,
beginning on January 1, 2027, to submit an annual progress report to the Legislature and the
Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, as specified. The bill would require the
empowerment zone, commencing on January 1, 2027, as specified, to post the above-described
report on its internet website and to submit a letter to the Legislature informing the Legislature that
the report has been posted. This bill contains other related provisions. (Based on 05/08/2025 text)
Status: 05/29/2025 - Referred to Com. on E.D., G., & H.I.
Location: 05/29/2025 - E.D., G., & H.I.
Position: Support
Notes1:
3/14/25: Matt requested in an email that CARPD support the bill. EN tagged as support. 3/17/25:
EN sent draft letter of support to Matt for review. Matt approved letter; EN submitted to Senate
Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee and Senate Local Government
Committee. 4/7/25: CP testified in support in Senate BPED. 4/8/25: DC submitted letter to Senate
Local Government. 4/17/25: CARPD Legislative Committee approved support position. 5/7/25: Bill
was on consent in Senate LG.
Miscellaneous
SB 563 (Valladares) State parks: Off-highway Motor Vehicle Recreation: grants: eligible
applicants. (Amended 03/26/2025)
The Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Act of 2003 creates the Division of Off-Highway Motor
Vehicle Recreation and requires the division to develop and implement a grant and cooperative
agreement program for specified purposes, including to support the planning, acquisition,
development, maintenance, administration, operation, enforcement, restoration, and
conservation of trails, trailheads, areas, and other facilities associated with use of off-highway
motor vehicles. Under current law, eligible grant and cooperative agreement applicants include,
among others, cities, counties, districts, state agencies, agencies of the United States, and
federally recognized and state-recognized Native American tribes, as specified. This bill would
expand eligible grant and cooperative agreement applicants to include special districts that
employ sworn personnel, as provided. (Based on 03/26/2025 text)
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 36 of 52
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Status: 06/05/2025 - Referred to Com. on W. P., & W.
Calendar: 06/17/25 A-WATER, PARKS AND WILDLIFE 9 a.m. - State Capitol, Room 444 PAPAN,
DIANE, Chair
Location: 06/05/2025 - W.,P. & W.
Position: Support
Notes1:
4/10/25: EN tagged as support. Sponsored by the Hesperia Recreation and Park District. 4/17/25:
CARPD Legislative Committee approved support position. 4/22/25: Bill was on consent. 4/24/25:
EN submitted letter to Senate Natural Resources and Water and Senate Appropriations
committees, and sent to Matt. 5/5/25: CS testified in support in Senate Appropriations. 6/9/25: EN
submitted letter to Assembly Water, Parks, and Widlife Committee, emailed governor's office, and
sent to Matt. 6/10/25: CSDA joined CARPD in support. EN resubmitted coalition letter and sent to
Matt.
Open Meetings and Transparency
AB 259 (Rubio, Blanca) Open meetings: local agencies: teleconferences. (Amended
04/21/2025)
The Ralph M. Brown Act, requires, with specified exceptions, that all meetings of a legislative body,
as defined, of a local agency be open and public and that all persons be permitted to attend and
participate. Current law, until January 1, 2026, authorizes the legislative body of a local agency to
use alternative teleconferencing if, during the teleconference meeting, at least a quorum of the
members of the legislative body participates in person from a singular physical location clearly
identified on the agenda that is open to the public and situated within the boundaries of the
territory over which the local agency exercises jurisdiction, and the legislative body complies with
prescribed requirements. Current law requires a member to satisfy specified requirements to
participate in a meeting remotely pursuant to these alternative teleconferencing provisions,
including that specified circumstances apply. Current law establishes limits on the number of
meetings a member may participate in solely by teleconference from a remote location pursuant to
these alternative teleconferencing provisions, including prohibiting such participation for more
than 2 meetings per year if the legislative body regularly meets once per month or less. This bill
would extend the alternative teleconferencing procedures until January 1, 2030. (Based
on 04/21/2025 text)
Status: 05/14/2025 - Referred to Coms. on L. GOV. and JUD.
Location: 05/14/2025 - L. GOV.
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 37 of 52
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Position: Support
Notes1:
3/6/25: CARPD Legislative Committee voted to support. EN tagged as support. CARPD signed onto
CSDA coalition letter. 4/4/25: EN received coalition letters and sent to Matt. 4/9/25: EN testified in
support in Assembly Local Government.
SB 707 (Durazo) Open meetings: meeting and teleconference requirements. (Amended
05/29/2025)
The Ralph M. Brown Act requires, with specified exceptions, that all meetings of a legislative body,
as defined, of a local agency be open and public and that all persons be permitted to attend and
participate. This bill would, until January 1, 2030, require an eligible legislative body, as defined, to
comply with additional meeting requirements, including that, except as specified, all open and
public meetings include an opportunity for members of the public to attend via a 2-way telephonic
service or a 2-way audiovisual platform, as defined, and that the eligible legislative body take
specified actions to encourage residents to participate in public meetings, as specified. (Based
on 05/29/2025 text)
Status: 06/09/2025 - Referred to Com. on L. GOV.
Location: 06/09/2025 - L. GOV.
Position: Concerns
Notes1:
3/6/25: CARPD Legislative Committee voted to oppose. EN tagged as oppose. 4/14/25: CARPD
joined CSAC coalition concerns letter; EN changed position to concerns. 4/15/25: EN received
coalition concerns letters and sent to Matt. 4/22/25: SG testified in Senate Judiciary with a
concerns position.
Public Safety and EMS
AB 237 (Patel) Crimes: threats. (Amended 05/23/2025)
Would make it a crime for a person to willfully threaten, by any means, including, but not limited to,
an image or threat posted or published on an internet web page, to commit a crime at specified
locations, including a daycare and workplace, with specific intent that the statement is be taken as
a threat, even if there is no intent of actually carrying it out, if the threat, on its face and under the
circumstances in which it is made is so unequivocal, unconditional, immediate, and specific as to
convey to the person or persons threatened a gravity of purpose and an immediate prospect of
execution of the threat, and if the threat causes a person or person to reasonably be in sustained
fear for their own safety or the safety of others at the specified locations. This bill would make this
crime, for a person 18 years of age or older, punishable as a wobbler by imprisonment in the county
jail for not more than one year or by imprisonment in the county jail for 16 months or 2 or 3 years. If
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 38 of 52
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a person under 18 years of age commits this crime, the bill would make this crime punishable as a
misdemeanor. By creating a new crime, this bill would create a state-mandated local
program. (Based on 05/23/2025 text)
Status: 06/04/2025 - In Senate. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment.
Location: 06/04/2025 - RLS.
Transportation and Public Works
AB 538 (Berman) Public works: payroll records. (Amended 05/23/2025)
Current law requires the Labor Commissioner to investigate allegations that a contractor or
subcontractor violated the law regulating public works projects, including the payment of
prevailing wages. Current law requires each contractor and subcontractor on a public works
project to keep accurate payroll records, showing the name, address, social security number, work
classification, straight time and overtime hours worked each day and week, and the actual per
diem wages paid to each journeyman, apprentice, worker, or other employee employed by the
contractor or subcontractor in connection with the public work. Current law requires certified
copies of records to be available upon request by the public and sets forth a process for the public
to request the records either through the awarding body or the Division of Labor Standards
Enforcement. Current law makes any contractor, subcontractor, agent, or representative who
neglects to comply with the requirements to keep accurate payroll records guilty of a
misdemeanor. This bill would require the awarding body, if a request is made by the public through
the awarding body and the body is not in possession of the certified records, to obtain those
records from the relevant contractor and make them available to the requesting entity. The bill
would authorize the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement to enforce certain penalties if a
contractor fails to comply with the awarding body’s request within 10 days of receipt of the
notice. (Based on 05/23/2025 text)
Status: 06/04/2025 - In Senate. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment.
Location: 06/04/2025 - RLS.
Notes1:
CSDA is opposed.
AB 978 (Hoover) Department of Transportation and local agencies: streets and highways:
recycled materials. (Amended 04/01/2025)
Current law requires a local agency that has jurisdiction over a street or highway, to the extent
feasible and cost effective, to apply standard specifications that allow for the use of recycled
materials in streets and highways, except as provided. Current law requires, until January 1, 2027,
those standard specifications to allow recycled materials at or above the level allowed in the
department’s standard specifications that went into effect on October 22, 2018, for specified
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 39 of 52
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materials. This bill would indefinitely require a local government’s standard specifications to allow
recycled materials at a level no less than the level allowed in the department’s specifications for
those specified materials. If a local agency’s standard specifications do not allow for the use of
recycled materials at a level that is equal to or greater than the level allowed in the department’s
standard specifications on the basis that the use of those recycled materials at those levels is not
feasible, the bill would require the local agency to provide the reason for that determination upon
request. By increasing the duties of local agencies, the bill would impose a state-mandated local
program. (Based on 04/01/2025 text)
Status: 06/10/2025 - From committee: Do pass and re-refer to Com. on APPR. (Ayes 13. Noes 0.)
(June 10). Re-referred to Com. on APPR.
Location: 06/10/2025 - APPR.
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 40 of 52
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CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
1127 11TH STREET, SUITE 300, SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 • 916.974.9270 • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM PAGE 1
Date: June 10, 2025
To: Jason Haber, Intergovernmental Affairs Director
Cindie McMahon, City Attorney
City of Carlsbad
From: Sharon Gonsalves
Managing Director
California Public Policy Group
Re: CPPG Analysis of SB 79 (As Amended May 29, 2025)
Overview
SB 79 (Wiener) proposes a framework to facilitate higher-density housing near transit infrastructure
through streamlined approvals, regulatory consistency, and CEQA exemptions. The bill has
undergone multiple amendments during the legislative session. This memo analyzes the
substantive changes between the May 13, 2025, and May 29, 2025, amendments.
Key Changes in the May 29, 2025, Version
1. Removal of Surplus Land Amendments (Gov. Code §54221)
One of the most significant changes is the complete removal of amendments to Government Code
Section 54221, which were included in the May 13 version. These provisions sought to expand the
definition of “agency’s use” to allow public transit agencies to retain land for commercial use. Their
deletion refocuses SB 79 exclusively on transit-oriented development (TOD) zoning, land use
planning, and CEQA exemptions, thereby narrowing the bill’s scope.
2. Clarification and Expansion of TOD Stop Definitions
The new version more clearly defines “transit-oriented development stop” to include ferry services
and stops designated by transit agencies or other authorities. This change increases flexibility in
determining eligible locations for TOD projects and potentially expands the geographic scope of
the bill’s application.
3. Addition of “Adjacency Intensifier” Provision
A new provision permits developments immediately adjacent to Tier 1–3 TOD stops to increase
allowable height by 20 feet, density by 40 units per acre, and floor area ratio (FAR) by 1. This
incentivizes development in parcels that might technically fall just outside strict TOD boundaries,
encouraging more compact, transit-accessible growth.
Reference: Proposed Gov Code §65912.157(a)(1)–(6) (minimum development standards).
4. Streamlined Ministerial Approval (SB 35 Compliance)
While both versions refer to eligibility for streamlined approval under Section 65913.4 (SB 35), the
new version provides more precise cross-references, spelling out which subsections are exempt
and reaffirming affordability compliance. This provides clarity to developers and local agencies
navigating dual regulatory tracks.
Exhibit 5
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 41 of 52
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5. Transit Agency Designation Authority
The amended version grants public transit agencies the authority to designate any stop as a Tier 3
TOD stop, provided the land in question is under the agency’s control. This decentralizes some
regulatory power and accommodates agency-specific planning goals, especially for land near
lesser-used or emerging transit nodes.
6. Procedures for Local Ordinances and TOD Alternative Plans
The Amendments from 5/13 detailed procedures governing local government enactment of TOD-
compatible zoning ordinances and alternative TOD plans. The 5/13 language introduced clearer
timelines and response obligations for localities receiving feedback from the Department of
Housing and Community Development (HCD). It allows cities to propose a locally tailored zoning
scheme in place of SB 79’s default density and height standards, provided the plan maintains or
exceeds state-required capacity benchmarks. The plan must be submitted as a general plan
amendment (must submit within 60 days of enactment) and approved by the Department of
Housing and Community Development (HCD) (if HCD determines noncompliance, they must notify
in writing and allow “reasonable time, not to exceed 30 days” for local agencies to respond before
taking further action).
CPPG Note: Transit agency designations under §65912.158(b) carry broader implications for
preemption, as they are not subject to HCD review. In contrast, local government designations via a
TOD-AP are tightly constrained by HCD oversight and capacity equivalency requirements. A
detailed analysis of the TOD Alternative Plan provision was provided in the CPPG Analysis of SB 79
from 5/13/2025; that analysis can be re-sent upon request.
7. CEQA Exemption Clarifications
The CEQA exemption for residential, commercial, or mixed-use projects on transit agency land is
maintained, but new language clarifies that this exemption does not apply to related offsite rail
storage or maintenance facilities. This ensures that support infrastructure undergoes appropriate
environmental review.
8. Severability Clause Added
The May 29 version introduces a severability clause, which protects the remainder of the bill should
a specific provision be invalidated in court. This is a standard legislative safeguard that strengthens
the overall legal durability of the statute.
Code Changes
Code Section Action Purpose
Gov. Code §65912.155–
65912.161 Added Creates TOD development standards, rights,
enforcement, and HCD oversight
Pub. Res. Code
§21080.26.5 Added Provides CEQA exemption for TOD projects on transit
agency land
Gov. Code §54221
(Removed) Would have expanded “agency use” for surplus land
Conclusion
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 42 of 52
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CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
II I
I ICJ
I ICJ
I ICJ
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The May 29, 2025 amendments to SB 79 streamline the bill by removing surplus land disposition
reforms and sharpen its focus on facilitating TOD housing production through CEQA reform, zoning
preemption, and clear local-state coordination. Key additions—such as the adjacency intensifier
and transit agency flexibility—represent a strategic refinement aimed at practical implementation
and broader applicability. Overall, the amendments enhance clarity, legal defensibility, and
jurisdictional collaboration while preserving the bill’s housing production goals.
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 43 of 52
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CEQA Bills Analysis
AB 609 (Wicks) & SB 607 (Wiener)
AB 609 (Wicks)i Exempts from CEQA a housing development project (defined via cross-referenceii
to include residential units only, mixed use projects, single-family homesiii, transitional or
farmworker housing) that meets the following conditions:
a)Site conditions:
i.20 acres or less, and within a city or “urban area,” as defined by US Census Bureau.
ii.Either previously developed for an urban use (as definediv), or at least 75 percent of
the perimeter adjoins parcels developed with urban usesv.
iii.Not located in the Coastal Zone in conflict with provisions applicable to projects
subject to the SB 35 (Wiener).vi
b)Project conditions:
i.Consistent with the general plan and zoningvii, and local coastal program.
ii.Must have at least ½ the density of Housing Element’s default affordable housing
zoning thresholds. (Mullin’ standardsviii). Projects are also eligible for Density Bonus
incentives, concessions, waivers and parking ratios.
iii.Cannot demolish a historic structure placed on a national, state or local register.
iv.Must complete a Phase 1, environmental assessment to determine if there is a
hazardous substance on the site.
v.Projects within 500 feet of a freeway cannot have balconies facing the freeway and
meet specified air filtration requirements.
Comments:
1)No Affordability or Labor: This bill grants a CEQA exemption to housing projects with
no affordability or labor provisions. This is essentially is an end-run around most recent
streamlined housing approval bills which grant CEQA exemptions via “ministerial
approval” but attach affordability and labor requirements.
2)Single-Family: This CEQA exemption also picks up single-family homes. This is a
major benefit to subdivision developers.
3)Reduced Densities: Two observation on reduced densities:
a.This bill departs from the legislative emphasis promoting high-density in infill
locations by allowing projects to take advantage of this provision if they meet
relatively modest (1/2 of Mullin standards). As revised, projects would have to
have the following minimum units per acre: 15 – metropolitan areas; 10 –
suburban; 7.5 incorporated non-metro; 5 – unincorporated non-metro. But
again, these are only the minimums. Nothing in this bill would prohibit its use on
very high density projects in urban areas.
b.Under the housing element, if locals approve projects at lower densities, they
have to “up zone” other parcels to comply with “No Net Lossix” requirements.
SB 607 (Wiener)x Declares legislative intent to enact necessary changes to CEQA as part of the
2025 budget process to ensure that the state meets its infrastructure needs and is more affordable
for all Californians, including projects that provide:
•Housing
•Clean energy jobs
•Critical transportationxi
•Make communities wildfire safe
Exhibit 6
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 44 of 52
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• Provide clean drinking water (but precludes changes that benefit the Delta
Conveyance Project)
The prior version: (May 13, 2025) of the bill, which was gutted to an intent bill on May 28, 2025,
proposed the following changes to CEQA:
1) Exempted rezoning of lands to implement the “schedule of actions” local agencies must
take in their housing elements from CEQA.
2) Required the Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI), before July 1, 2026, to:
a. Prepare an “alternative means of compliance” for a Class 32 CEQA categorical
exemption, covering a housing development project on an infill site of five acres or
less.xii
b. Map the eligible urban infill sites within every urban area of the state.xiii
3) Tightened CEQA reviews (including triggering more EIRs) for projects involving either oil and
gas infrastructure, or warehouse distribution centers of more than 50,000 square feet.
4) Narrowed CEQA analysis requirements for proposed projects which would be otherwise
eligible for either an existing statutory or regulatory (categorical exemption) but for a single
condition.
a. Required that the initial study or EIR to focus solely on the single condition, and not
include an analysis of project alternatives, cumulative or growth-inducing impacts.
b. Applied this “single condition” analysis to housing development projects
(residential, mixed use, transitional housing, or farmworker housing) not consistent
with applicable zoning designation and regulations proposed on sites identified for
very low, low, or moderate income households in the most recent HCD-certified
housing element.
5) Makes other clarifying/tightening revisions to CEQA statutes.
Comments:
1) Disconnect: There is a disconnect between the prior version of this bill and the sweeping
intent language adopted after the bill was gutted. For example, there is no focus in the prior
version on “infrastructure, clean energy, critical transportation, wildfires, or clean water
projects.” Note: this broader intent language could reflect that Senator Wiener has
proposed other CEQA exemptions in SB 79, and Sen. McGuire has policy concerns about
wildfires, etc.
2) CEQA Road Previously Travelled: The intent language states the following:
“(b) Over the last several years, the Legislature has enacted numerous provisions that
streamline the California Environmental Quality Act, including, but not limited to, reforms to
administrative records, court timelines, and the level of environmental review of projects in
the areas of water, transportation, clean energy, and housing. “ This language is
reminiscent of the authority already granted to the Governor under the Jobs and Economic
Improvement Through Environmental Leadership Act (Sec. 21178-21198.3 PRC), which
authorizes the Governor to grant CEQA streamlining to projects over $100 million ($15
million for housing) which meet various environmental requirements including payment of
prevailing wages. Perhaps the intent is to further revise this statute.
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 45 of 52
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i Location: Senate Rules.
ii Cross-reference is to sub (h)(2) of Sec. 65589.5. (Housing Accountability Act)
iii This bill also picks up single-family homes because the definition of “housing development project”
included in AB 609 is accomplished via a cross-reference to Sec. 65905.5 (law that says the locals can only
have five hearings on projects that conform to local general plans and zoning).
iv ”For purposes of this section, “urban use” means any current or previous residential or commercial development,
public institution, or public park that is surrounded by other urban uses, parking lot or structure, transit or transportation
passenger facility, or retail use, or any combination of those uses.”
v For sits not previously developed for urban uses, they cannot contain tribal cultural resources.
vi For limitations affecting the Coastal Zone properties see sub (a)(6) of Sec. 65913.4.
vii There is some “waffle language” here that provides that if there are inconsistencies between the general
plan and zoning, the project needs to only be consistent with one or the other.
viii Sec. 65583.2(c)(3) (B)
ix Sec. 65863.
x Location: Senate Floor. 5/28/25 version.
xi The intent language mentions that housing, clean energy and critical transportation projects will “lead to
economic development for hardworking California families.” It is not clear if this is just related rhetoric, or if
there is an intent to include CEQA changes to benefit private-sector economic development projects.
xii Numerous additional conditions apply.
xiii Numerous additional conditions apply.
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 46 of 52
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CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
1127 11TH STREET, SUITE 300, SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 • 916.974.9270 • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM PAGE 1
Date: May 29, 2025
To: Jason Haber, Intergovernmental Affairs Director
Cindie McMahon, City Attorney
City of Carlsbad
From: Sharon Gonsalves
Managing Director
California Public Policy Group
Re: CPPG Analysis of AB 1337 (Ward) Information Practices Act of 1977
(As Amended May 23, 2025)
Summary
AB 1337 (Ward) represents a significant and potentially disruptive expansion of the Information
Practices Act of 1977 (IPA), applying a complex and resource-intensive regulatory framework—
originally designed for state agencies—to every city, county, special district, and local public agency
in California. While the bill is framed as a response to technological advancements and evolving
public expectations around privacy, its practical effect is to eliminate the long-standing exemption
that recognized the operational and resource constraints of local government.
By extending state-level privacy mandates to local jurisdictions, AB 1337 disregards the substantial
differences in capacity, staffing, and technical infrastructure between state departments and local
agencies. The bill mandates uniform compliance with an expansive definition of “personal
information,” stringent disclosure tracking, breach notification protocols, and ongoing employee
training—requirements that are administratively burdensome and financially unworkable for many
Key Definitions and Applicability to Local Government
The bill amends Civil Code Section 1798.3 to significantly expand the definition of “personal
information,” which now includes:
•Neural data and genetic data
•Biometric identifiers
•Precise geolocation data
•Email, text, and mail content (unless the agency is the intended recipient)
•Any identifiers or metadata capable of linking back to an individual
It also redefines “agency” to include all local governments—cities, counties, districts, and political
subdivisions—bringing them under the Act for the first time.
Violations and Legal Exposure
AB 1337 introduces a multi-tiered liability structure:
•Negligent or Intentional Violations
Any negligent or intentional violation of the IPA or implementing rules by an agency employee
constitutes cause for discipline, including termination (Civil Code §1798.55).
•Misdemeanor Offense
The intentional disclosure of medical, psychiatric, or psychological information in violation
of the Act is now a misdemeanor offense, regardless of whether any harm occurred (Civil
Exhibit 7
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Code §1798.57). This removes the previous threshold requiring economic loss or personal
injury.
• Litigation Risk
While the bill does not explicitly create a private right of action, compliance failures may form
the basis for tort or contract claims, especially in cases of data breaches, wrongful
disclosures, or mishandling of public records.
Impact of AB 1337 on Law Enforcement Agencies
AB 1337 does not exempt law enforcement agencies from its revised definition of “agency.”
These agencies must now:
• Track and log every disclosure of personal information, including those made internally or to
other government entities in the course of investigations.
• Restrict the use of collected personal data strictly to the original stated purpose, unless
further use is expressly required or authorized by state or federal law.
• Implement formal breach notification protocols, including notice to affected individuals and
the Attorney General when applicable.
• Develop and administer internal privacy training programs for all personnel involved in the
design, use, disclosure, or maintenance of records containing personal information. These
trainings must include instruction on agency privacy policies, applicable statutory
obligations, and the potential consequences for negligent or intentional violations.
Practical Implications for Law Enforcement:
• Ongoing Investigations: Sharing or disclosing suspect, witness, or victim data with other
jurisdictions—even if law enforcement—must now be tracked, justified, and retained for 3
years. This could interfere with multi-agency investigations.
• Informants and Confidential Sources: New definitions (e.g., email content, precise
geolocation, biometric data) create uncertainty around how informant protections intersect
with mandated notice, access, or disclosure restrictions.
• Records Requests: CPRA exemptions for law enforcement records remain, but agencies
must now determine if releasing any data—even redacted—could violate the new IPA
disclosure rules.
CPPG Note: These changes introduce significant operational complexity for local law enforcement
agencies and could hinder investigatory agility without added statutory carve-outs or exceptions.
Local Agencies: State vs. Federal Law Conflict
Under current law (Civil Code §1798.24(f)), agencies may disclose personal information:
• “as required by federal law,” or
• “as authorized by state law.”
AB 1337 amends this provision to allow disclosure only when authorized by state or federal law—
striking “required” entirely. The amended language (emphasis added) states:
“…except as authorized by state or federal law.”
(Civil Code §1798.24(f), as amended)
Implication for Local Agencies
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• This change removes a critical statutory protection for agencies that disclose personal
information under federal mandate (e.g., federal subpoenas, ICE detainer requests, FAA
compliance orders, TSA security directives).
• Local agencies may be placed in the untenable position of choosing between violating
California’s privacy restrictions or failing to comply with federal law.
• Although federal law generally preempts conflicting state law, AB 1337 provides no safe
harbor or explicit immunity, leaving agencies vulnerable to state-level discipline or litigation
before a federal preemption defense can be raised.
• This ambiguity is especially problematic in areas such as:
o Immigration enforcement (e.g., jail transfers or ICE coordination)
o Tax reporting (e.g., employment data sent to the IRS)
o Public benefits programs (e.g., federal audits, verifications, or inter-agency data
matching)
o Cybersecurity reporting (e.g., federally mandated disclosures of breaches or threats)
CPPG Note: This creates legal ambiguity and may chill legitimate, federally compelled disclosures
unless explicitly authorized by state law or clarified in further amendments.
Conflicts with the California Public Records Act (CPRA)
AB 1337 introduces significant legal tension for agencies responding to public records requests.
While Civil Code § 1798.24(g) explicitly allows disclosures made pursuant to the CPRA, this does not
serve as a blanket exemption. It protects agencies only where disclosure is clearly required under
CPRA. In most practical cases, however, records officers must weigh competing considerations
under CPRA’s discretionary exemptions—such as privacy, investigative privilege, or personnel
protections.
If an agency errs on the side of transparency and discloses personal information later deemed
exempt, AB 1337 provides no safe harbor. Negligent disclosures may result in disciplinary action
under § 1798.55, and the release of certain categories—such as medical or psychological records—
could trigger misdemeanor liability under § 1798.57, even without actual harm.
This dual compliance structure forces clerks and legal staff to choose between:
• Withholding records and risking CPRA enforcement or litigation; or
• Disclosing records and risking liability under the IPA.
The result is a chilling effect on routine records processing, especially for small jurisdictions without
in-house legal counsel. Without statutory clarification or safe harbors, agencies face heightened
exposure in a compliance environment where public access and personal privacy are structurally at
odds.
Administrative and Operational Burdens
The operational impact on local agencies, particularly those with limited legal and IT capacity, is
significant. Agencies will be required to:
• Redesign data collection systems and public forms
• Maintain audit trails for all data disclosures
• Implement and manage breach notification workflows
• Conduct regular staff training on privacy compliance
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• Revise vendor agreements and monitor third-party compliance
CPPG Note: The cumulative effect is a set of mandates that far exceed the typical administrative
bandwidth of local governments, placing small and mid-sized agencies at heightened risk of
noncompliance.
Vendor Relationship and Cost Implications
Vendors performing agency functions involving personal data will now be considered agency
employees for the purpose of compliance. This imposes downstream obligations requiring:
• New privacy compliance terms in contracts
• Auditing vendor practices
• Limiting access to data unless use aligns with original purpose
• Potential indemnification for breaches caused by contractor negligence
CPPG Note: For agencies using legacy systems or basic IT services, these requirements could
necessitate a full-scale procurement overhaul and significantly increase ongoing service costs.
January 1, 2026 Effective Date
AB 1337 does not include any language providing for delayed implementation or a phased
compliance timeline. There is no transition period specified in the bill text.
As a result:
Local agencies would be required to be fully compliant by the bill’s effective date, January 1, 2026,
assuming it is signed into law and not amended further to include a delayed start. This immediate
applicability compounds the burden on local governments, which will have less than six months to
comply.
Summary Chart: New Requirements for Local Agencies
Provision New Requirement Implications
Data Collection
Notices
Agencies must provide detailed written notices
to individuals at the point of data collection.
Requires overhaul of intake
forms and public-facing
systems.
Use Limitation Personal information may only be used for the
purpose originally stated at collection.
Restricts data reuse;
increases legal risk if reused in
other contexts.
Disclosure
Tracking
Every instance of data disclosure must be
documented, including date, recipient, and
purpose.
Adds significant
recordkeeping burden; must
retain logs for 3 years.
Training and
Conduct
Standards
Agencies must establish internal rules of
conduct and train employees who handle
personal information on those rules and on IPA
compliance.
Requires new agency-wide
training programs and
updated internal policies.
Breach
Notification
Protocols
Agencies must notify affected individuals and
the Attorney General (if >500 residents) of any
qualifying data breach.
High administrative burden;
legal and reputational
exposure.
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 50 of 52
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
1127 11TH STREET, SUITE 300, SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 • 916.974.9270 • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM PAGE 5
Provision New Requirement Implications
Vendor
Compliance
Contractors must comply with all IPA provisions
and are treated as agency employees for
enforcement.
Requires revising all third-
party contracts to include new
privacy terms.
Concluding Assessment
While AB 1337 may be workable—if complex—for state agencies and large private firms with
dedicated compliance teams, its application to local government is fundamentally flawed. The bill
imposes a high-level data protection framework on local agencies without regard for the practical
constraints—limited budgets, staffing, and infrastructure—that shape daily municipal operations. It
assumes cities and counties can overhaul systems, manage legal risk, and ensure compliance
without impacting essential services.
The burden is especially severe for law enforcement. AB 1337 applies equally to public safety
departments, requiring detailed documentation of every data disclosure, even during active
investigations. These restrictions could disrupt coordination, delay critical decisions, and
complicate informant handling. Further, even negligent disclosures of sensitive data—such as
biometric or health information—could now lead to disciplinary action or misdemeanor charges.
Beyond law enforcement, AB 1337 presents major challenges for core city departments:
• Clerks and Records Offices must navigate overlapping mandates under the California
Public Records Act (CPRA) and AB 1337’s strict disclosure limits—often with conflicting
thresholds and no safe harbor for good-faith errors. Clerks will also be tasked with
implementing agency-wide privacy trainings covering statutory obligations and conduct
rules, a significant burden for smaller jurisdictions where these duties often fall to a single
staff member.
• IT Departments will need to quickly install or retrofit tracking, encryption, and access
controls—often without adequate technical resources.
• Human Resources Divisions must coordinate trainings and revise disciplinary policies to
reflect new liability for negligent data handling, including potential termination or criminal
exposure.
These mandates impose unfunded costs, heighten legal risk, and disrupt internal operations. Local
agencies will be forced to slow services to ensure compliance—or risk penalties. Without
exemptions for key departments, phased implementation, or state support, AB 1337 creates a
compliance burden that may prove unworkable for many local governments.
Appendix
Existing Law (Prior to AB 1337)
• Civil Code § 1798.3(b) – Agency Definition
Defines “agency” under the Information Practices Act (IPA) as state-level entities only; expressly excludes local agencies such
as cities, counties, and special districts.
• Civil Code § 1798.24 – Disclosure Limitations
Prohibits disclosure of personal information that can be linked to an individual, except under enumerated exceptions (e.g.,
with consent, under court order, or for legitimate agency purposes).
• Civil Code § 1798.55 – Employee Discipline (Intentional Violations)
Authorizes disciplinary action, including termination, for intentional violations of the IPA by state agency employees.
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 51 of 52
~CPPG
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1127 11TH STREET, SUITE 300, SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 • 916.974.9270 • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM PAGE 6
• Civil Code § 1798.57 – Criminal Penalty (Disclosure of Medical Info)
Under existing law, the intentional unlawful disclosure of medical, psychiatric, or psychological information is a misdemeanor
only if it results in economic loss or personal injury.
• California Public Records Act – Government Code § 7920.000 et seq.
Establishes a broad public right of access to records maintained by public agencies, with limited exceptions for privacy,
security, and investigative purposes.
As Proposed by AB 1337 (2025 Amendments)
• AB 1337, § 1 – Amendment to Civil Code § 1798.3(b)
Removes the exemption for local agencies, making cities, counties, school districts, and other political subdivisions fully
subject to the IPA.
• AB 1337, § 1 – Amendment to Civil Code § 1798.3(a)
Expands the definition of “personal information” to include neural data, genetic data, biometric identifiers, precise
geolocation, and electronic communications content, among other data categories.
• AB 1337, § 2 – Amendment to Civil Code § 1798.16
Requires agencies to retain and disclose the original source of collected personal information in a readily accessible format
for disclosure to the subject.
• AB 1337, § 5 – Amendment to Civil Code § 1798.20
Requires each agency to establish internal rules of conduct for personnel handling personal data and to train such personnel
on those rules and the broader requirements of the Act. Also limits the use of personal data to the original collection purpose
unless authorized by law.
• AB 1337, § 6 – Amendment to Civil Code § 1798.24
Narrows permissible disclosures of personal information; introduces new procedural safeguards, documentation
requirements, and privacy-preserving criteria for research-related disclosures.
• AB 1337, § 11 – Amendment to Civil Code § 1798.29
Expands breach notification duties to all agencies (including local); adds detailed formatting, timing, and content
requirements for breach notices; mandates notice to the Attorney General for incidents affecting more than 500 residents.
• AB 1337, § 13 – Amendment to Civil Code § 1798.55
Adds negligent violations of the IPA as grounds for disciplinary action, in addition to intentional violations.
• AB 1337, § 14 – Amendment to Civil Code § 1798.57
Removes the requirement that disclosure of medical, psychiatric, or psychological information must result in economic loss
or personal injury to be considered a misdemeanor—thereby expanding criminal liability to all intentional disclosures
regardless of harm.
• AB 1337, § 16 – Legislative Findings
Acknowledges that the bill limits public access under Article I, Section 3 of the California Constitution by imposing new
privacy protections, and asserts this limitation is justified to address the sensitivity of personal data in the modern era.
• AB 1337, § 17 – Mandated Cost Reimbursement
Clarifies that costs arising from the bill may qualify for state reimbursement under the Government Code, unless the cost
results from the creation or expansion of a criminal penalty.
###
June 17, 2025 Item #2 Page 52 of 52
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
1
FEDERAL LEGISLATION
Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act
(H.R. 973) would require the Consumer Product Safety Commission to
issue a final consumer product safety rule for rechargeable lithium-ion
batteries used in micromobility devices, such as electric bikes and
electric scooters.
Specifically, the rule must require manufacturers and distributors
of such products to comply with the applicable safety
standards established by the American National Standards Institute.
The bill is introduced by Rep. Richie Torres (D-NY) and has 23
bipartisan cosponsors (6 Republicans and 17 Democrats). The bill
passed the House at the end of April and is currently pending in the
Senate.
ITEM 2:LEGISLATIVE AND ADVOCACY UPDATE
{ City of
Carlsbad
2
FEDERAL LEGISLATION
Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act of 2025
(H.R. 2786) would revitalize federal efforts to strengthen and protect lagoons and estuaries. This bill would reauthorize and enhance the Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program (CELCP) and require the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to work toward designating five new National Estuarine Research Reserves and to enhance the Reserve System. Congress established the CELCP to provide grants to state and local governments to protect coastal and estuarine areas deemed to have conservation, recreation, ecological, historical, or aesthetic value.
The Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act would revive funding for CELCP at $60 million per year and expand the eligibility for the program to include nongovernmental organizations.
The bill is introduced by Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA) and has 9 bipartisan cosponsors (5 Republicans and 4 Democrats). The bill is currently pending before the House Natural Resources Committee.
ITEM 2:LEGISLATIVE AND ADVOCACY UPDATE
{ City of
Carlsbad
3
FEDERAL LEGISLATION
Cutting Lead Exposure and Aviation Relief Skies Act
(H.R. 2932) aims to protect the health of communities near airports by
reducing harmful lead emissions from aviation fuel and accelerating
the transition to unleaded alternatives.
The legislation would establish a federal tax credit starting at $1.25 per
gallon for domestic producers of unleaded avgas, gradually phasing
down through 2030. The bill also directs the Government
Accountability Office to study the effectiveness of the credit and track
market pricing differences between leaded and unleaded aviation
fuels.
The bill is introduced by Reps. Robert Garcia (D-CA) and Jay Obernolte
(R-CA). The bill is currently pending before the House Ways and Means
Committee.
ITEM 2:LEGISLATIVE AND ADVOCACY UPDATE
{ City of
Carlsbad
4
FEDERAL LEGISLATION
Stop Child Hunger Act
(H.R. 3217) would provide families who have children eligible for free
and reduced-price school meals with an electronic benefit transfer
(EBT) card to use when school is not in session. The EBT card could be
used during summer or winter break, or when schools are operating
remotely or are closed for a natural disaster.
The bill was introduced by Reps. Mike Levin (D-CA) and Jahana Hayes
(D-CT). The bill is currently pending before the House Education and
Workforce Committee. A companion bill was also introduced in the
Senate by Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA).
ITEM 2:LEGISLATIVE AND ADVOCACY UPDATE
{ City of
Carlsbad
5
FEDERAL LEGISLATION
Water Systems PFAS Liability Protection Act
(H.R 1267) would ensure that water utilities can continue to focus their
efforts on maintaining water quality rather than defending themselves
when PFAS polluters seek to dilute their liability.
The EPA’s Designation of Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and
Perfluorooctanesulfonic Acid (PFOS) as Hazardous Substances under
the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and
Liability Act (CERCLA) final rule does not provide liability protections
for public water utilities.
EPA has signaled that it intends to employ “enforcement discretion”
and not pursue CERCLA clean-up liability against drinking water and
wastewater systems related to PFAS. However, EPA’s intent does not
protect against third-party CERCLA claims.
ITEM 2:LEGISLATIVE AND ADVOCACY UPDATE
- The bill is introduced by Reps.
Marie Gluesenkamp-Perez (D-OR)
and Celeste Maloy (R-UT) and has
17 bipartisan cosponsors (9
Republicans and 8 Democrats).
The bill is currently pending
before the House Energy &
Commerce and Transportation &
Infrastructure Committees.
{ City of
Carlsbad
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP •PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
City of Carlsbad
Legislative Subcommittee
June 17, 2025
Sharon Gonsalves, Managing Director, California Public Policy Group
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
-PPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
2025 Legislative Calendar
•January 10—Governor’s budget proposal
•January 24—Last day to submit bill requests to the Office of Legislative Counsel
•February 21—Bill introduction deadline
•April 11-18—Legislative spring recess
•Mid-May—Governor’s May budget revise
•June 6—House of origin deadline
•June 15—Legislature must pass FY 25-26 Budget
•June 30—Governor must sign FY 25-26 Budget
•September 12—Last day for the Legislature to pass bills
•October 12—Last day for the Governor to sign or veto bills ~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
2025-26 Budget Update
•$325 billion budget spending plan relies on borrowing more than cuts to programs to close
$12 billion budget deficit.
•Legislature met its constitutional obligation to pass a budget by the June 15 deadline with the
vote on SB 101.
•Legislative budget agreement was put into June 10, making it eligible for a vote on June 13.
•SB 101 is a place holder as negotiations continue with the Governor.
•Budget bill Jr and trailer bills to follow throughout the summer.
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
2025-26 Budget Point of Contention
Funding for Proposition 36
Cuts to Medi-Cal
Homelessness, Housing Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) funding.
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Bills Held in Appropriations
SB 496 (Hurtado) Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation: appeals advisory committee:
exemptions.
This bill would have established the Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation Appeals Advisory
Committee to review appeals of denied requests for exemptions from the requirements of
the Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation.
Position: Support
SB 350 (Durazo) Water Rate Assistance Program.
This bill would have established the Fund in the State Treasury to provide water
affordability assistance to low-income residential ratepayers.
Position: Watch
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Legislative Update: Public Safety
AB 237 (Patel) Crimes: threats.
This bill creates a new crime for a person to willfully threaten to commit a crime that will result in great
bodily injury or death at a daycare, school, university, workplace, house of worship, or medical facility.
Status: Senate Rules
Position: Watch
AB 379 (Schultz) Crimes: Prostitution.
This bill will increase the penalty for solicitation of a minor in specified circumstances; make it a
misdemeanor for any person to loiter in any public place with the intent to purchase commercial sex, create
the Survivor Support Fund to fund grant programs to community-based organizations (CBOs) that provide
direct services and outreach to victims of sex trafficking and exploitation.
Status: Senate Appropriations
Position: For Discussion
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Legislative Update: Natural Resources
SB 741 (Blakespear) Coastal resources: coastal development permit: exemption: Los
Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo Rail Corridor
This bill would expand the coastal development permitting process exemption to include
certain emergency projects undertaken, carried out, or approved by a public agency to
maintain, repair, or restore existing railroad track along the Los Angeles-San Diego-San
Luis Obispo Rail Corridor.
Status: Assembly Natural Resources
Position: Support
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Legislative Update: Health and Human Services
AB 424 (Davies) Alcohol and other drug programs: complaints.
This bill requires DHCS to provide notice of receipt within 10 days to a person filing a complaint
against a licensed alcohol or other drug recovery or treatment facility, or a complaint that a facility
is unlawfully operating without a license.
Status: Senate Health
Position: Support
AB 492 (Valencia) Alcohol and drug programs: licensing.
This bill requires DHCS to notify the city or county in which a facility is located of the newly issued
license and provide them with the name and mailing address of the licensee and the location of
the facility.
Status: Senate Health
Position: Support ~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Legislative Update: Health and Human Services
SB 35 (Umberg) Alcohol and drug programs.
This bill would require the department to initiate an investigation within 10 days of receiving the allegation
and complete the investigation within 60 days of initiating the investigation.
Status: Assembly Health
Position: Support
SB 329 (Blakespear) Alcohol and drug recovery or treatment facilities: investigations.
This bill would require the department to assign a complaint under its jurisdiction regarding an alcohol or
other drug recovery or treatment facility to an analyst for investigation within 10 days of receiving the
complaint. If the department receives a complaint that does not fall under its jurisdiction, the bill would
require the department to notify the complainant, in writing, that it does not investigate that type of
complaint.
Status: Assembly Health
Position: Support ~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Legislative Update: Housing and Land Use
AB 87 (Boerner) Housing development: density bonuses: mixed-use developments.
This bill prohibits an incentive or concession granted for a mixed-use development containing a
hotel, motel, bed and breakfast inn, or other visitor-serving purpose from applying to the portion
of the proposed development containing hotel, motel, bed and breakfast inn, or other visitor-
serving purpose use.
Status: Senate Housing
Position: Watch
AB 610 (Alvarez) Housing element: governmental constraints: disclosure statement.
This bill makes changes to the contents of the governmental constraints analysis that must be
included in a local government’s housing element.
Status: Senate Rules
Position: Oppose ~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Legislative Update: Housing and Land Use
AB 650 (Papan) Planning and zoning: housing element: regional housing needs
allocation.
This bill extends the timeline of the RHNA process and requires HCD to provide specific
analysis to local governments to remedy deficiencies in their draft housing element
revisions.
Status: Senate Rules
Position: Support
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Legislative Update: Housing and Land Use
AB 253 (Ward) California Residential Private Permitting Review Act: residential building
permits.
This bill requires a city’s building department to prepare a residential building permit fee schedule
and post the schedule on the city’s internet website, if the city prescribes residential building
permit fees.
Status: Senate Local Government
Position: Oppose
AB 306 (Schultz) Building regulations: state building standards.
This bill places a six-year moratorium on local governments’ ability to adopt or amend local
building standards beyond those contained in the California Building Standards Code.
Status: Senate Housing
Position: Oppose ~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Legislative Update: Housing and Land Use
SB 79 (Wiener) Housing development: transit-oriented development: California Environmental Quality
Act: public transit agency land.
This bill requires local governments to allow residential development near transit stops by establishing
zoning minimums for height, density, and floor area ratio, streamlining project approval, limiting local
authority to deny projects, and exempting certain transit-agency-owned projects from CEQA.
Status: Assembly Desk
Position: Oppose
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Legislative Update: Housing and Land Use
SB 92 (Blakespear) Housing development: density bonuses.
This bill would specify that certain provisions of the Density Bonus Law do not require a city, county, or city
and county to approve, grant a concession or incentive requiring approval of, or waive or reduce
development standards otherwise applicable to, transient lodging as part of a housing development, except
as specified. The bill would also specify that a city, county, or city and county is authorized, but not
required, to provide concessions or incentives or waivers or reductions of development standards allowing
for an increase in floor area to apply to the nonresidential portion, or specified parking, of a housing
development.adoption or fails to respond within 30 days to departmental findings of noncompliance with
state standards.
Status:Assembly Housing and Community Development
Position:Watch
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Legislative Update: Housing and Land Use
SB 346 (Durazo) Local agencies: transient occupancy taxes: short-term rental facilitator.
This bill would authorize a local agency to enact an ordinance to require a short-term rental facilitator to
report the physical address, including 9-digit ZIP Code, of each short-term rental as well as any additional
information necessary to identify the property as may be required by the local agency. The bill would
authorize the local agency to impose an administrative fine or penalty for failure to file the report, and would
authorize the local agency to initiate an audit of a short-term rental facilitator. The bill would require a short-
term rental facilitator, in a jurisdiction that has adopted an ordinance, to include in the listing of a short-term
rental any applicable local license number associated with the short-term rental and any transient
occupancy tax certification issued by a local agency.
Status: Assembly Local Government
Position: Support
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Legislative Update: Housing and Land Use
SB 358 (Becker) Mitigation Fee Act: mitigating vehicular traffic impacts.
This bill requires that any findings used by a local agency to justify not reducing traffic
mitigation fees for qualifying housing developments be supported by substantial evidence
in the record before or during the project approval process.
Status: Assembly Local Government
Position: Oppose
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Legislative Update: Homelessness
SB 16 (Blakespear) Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention program: housing element: unsheltered and
chronic homelessness: assessment and financing plan.
This bill requires all cities, including charter cities, to include elements of the Homeless Housing, Assistance, and
Prevention (HHAP) program in their housing elements, specifically addressing homelessness through regional
coordination and local capacity measures.
Status: Assembly Housing and Community Development
Position: Watch
SB 569 (Blakespear) Department of Transportation: homeless encampments.
This bill would require the department to establish a dedicated liaison to, among other things, facilitate communication
with local governments and relevant state agencies with regard to addressing homeless encampments within the state
highway system and to oversee the development and implementation of delegated maintenance agreements between
local agencies and the department in which both work together to reduce and remove homeless encampments within
the department’s jurisdiction.
Status:Assembly Desk
Position:Support ~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Legislative Update: Brown Act
AB 259 (Rubio, Blanca) Open meetings: local agencies: teleconferences.
This bill extends the sunset on AB 2449 (Rubio, 2022) to January 1, 2030.
Status: Senate Local Government
Position: Support
SB 707 (Durazo) Open meetings: meeting and teleconference requirements.
The last week of May, the subsidiary body provisions in SB 239 (Arreguin) were merged into SB 707. SB 239
was moved to the inactive file and Arreguin became a coauthor of SB 707. Additionally, SB 707 now requires
all legislative bodies to teleconference all open meetings if a city has more than 30,000 people or is in a
county with more than 200,000 people. The bill allows for a digital service to fulfill the agenda translation
requirement and says that local agencies are not liable for translation accuracy. Future amendments to
address teleconference disruptions (“zoombombing”) are expected.
Status: Assembly Local Government
Position: For Discussion ~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Legislative Update: Environment and Climate
AB 996 (Pellerin) Public Resources: sea level rise plans.
This bill would authorize the applicable commission, when approving a local coastal plan
or an amendment to a local coastal plan, to deem existing sea level rise information or
plans prepared by a local government to satisfy the content requirements for a sea level
rise plan.
Status: Senate Rules
Position: For Discussion
~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Legislative Update: Gov Ops
AB 1337 (Ward) Information Practices Act of 1977.
The Information Practices Act of 1977 is the primary privacy law that governs how state agencies
handle personal information that they have access to. Local agencies are currently exempt from
the Act. AB 1337 would remove that exemption, thus requiring all local governments to comply
with the provisions of the Act. The bill would make any negligent collection, maintenance, or
disclosure of personal information by the local agency employee who handled the personal
information a cause for discipline, including termination. The bill would prohibit a local agency
from sharing personal information with another agency for any other reason than what the
information was collected for. The bill would prohibit a local agency from sharing personal
information with the federal government unless authorized or required by state law. The bill also
expands the definition of “personal information” to include essentially all information that could
be identified with an individual.
Status: Senate pending referral ~CPPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
Questions/Discussion
Thank You!
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP • PUBLICPOLICYGROUP.COM
-PPG
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC POLICY GROUP