An act to add Sections 39616.6 and 40440.9 to the Health and Safety Code, relating to air resources.
Impact
If enacted, AB 1791 would significantly alter the regulatory landscape for air quality management in California, particularly within the South Coast region, which encompasses parts of several counties, including Los Angeles and Orange. It aims to ensure that local and state regulations do not impose excessive financial burdens on residents and developers, thereby potentially affecting efforts to combat air pollution and global warming. The bill enforces a mechanism requiring the State Air Resources Board and the South Coast district to provide data demonstrating compliance with the proposed cost limitations, which could help maintain transparency in the regulatory process.
Summary
Assembly Bill 1791, introduced by Assembly Member Sanchez, addresses regulations related to air resources in California, particularly affecting the South Coast Air Quality Management District. The bill specifically prohibits the State Air Resources Board from enacting any regulation that would increase the cost of gasoline by more than two cents per gallon or increase the costs of building homes and nonresidential structures significantly—capping increases at $2,000 for homes and $5,000 for nonresidential buildings. This restriction aims to mitigate the financial impact of environmental regulations on both consumers and builders.
Contention
There are notable concerns surrounding the bill, particularly regarding the balance between environmental protection and economic feasibility. Supporters may argue that this law safeguards consumers from steep cost increases and encourages housing development. However, critics could contend that such tight restrictions might hinder necessary environmental regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, potentially stalling progress toward California's climate goals. Additionally, the reimbursement provisions for local agencies, if costs are deemed mandated by the state, introduce another layer of complexity into funding local air quality initiatives.
An act to add Section 25534.07 to the Health and Safety Code, and to amend Section 7856 of, and to add and repeal Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 7875) of Part 7.5 of Division 5 of, the Labor Code, relating to employment.
An act to amend Sections 2301 and 2302 of, and to add Section 2303 to, the Fish and Game Code, to add and repeal Section 515 of the Food and Agricultural Code, to amend Sections 675, 676, and 676.
Relating to the authority of the Wood County Central Hospital District of Wood County, Texas, to provide brain and memory care services to residents of the hospital district through the creation and operation of brain and memory health care services districts.