California Assembly Bill AB2787

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/26
• Refer: 3/16/26
• Report Pass: 4/15/26
• Refer: 4/15/26
• Report Pass: 4/29/26
• Engrossed: 5/7/26
• Refer: 5/7/26
• Refer: 5/20/26

Caption

An act to amend Section 675 of the Harbors and Navigation Code, to amend Sections 9853 and 9860 of the Vehicle Code, and to amend Section 10722.4 of the Water Code, relating to public resources.

Impact

The bill impacts several state laws by reinforcing the Department of Fish and Wildlife's authority to enter agreements for the management of public lands and programs aimed at conserving wildlife habitats. It requires the department to review and potentially reprioritize groundwater basins every ten years, enhancing the accountability and effectiveness of California's groundwater management strategy. Further, it establishes exemptions related to vessel operators on Lake Tahoe and Topaz Lake, specifically allowing for those registered in Nevada to operate without a state-issued invasive mussel prevention sticker, promoting compliance with existing environmental protection measures without creating unreasonable barriers for out-of-state boaters.

Summary

Assembly Bill 2787, introduced by the Committee on Water, Parks, and Wildlife, serves as an omnibus bill aimed at addressing various aspects of water, parks, and wildlife management in California. It primarily amends existing laws associated with the Fish and Game Code, Harbors and Navigation Code, Vehicle Code, and Water Code. Key provisions include enhancing programs for habitat management and conservation, particularly through the Nesting Bird Habitat Incentive Program which encourages landowners to cultivate specific plants beneficial for waterfowl and other game birds. Additionally, it seeks to streamline regulations surrounding the management of department lands and allows for greater flexibility in contracting with nonprofit conservation organizations for these purposes.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the perception of regulatory overreach versus the necessity of stricter management practices aimed at conserving California's natural resources. Proponents may argue that establishing clearer guidelines for vessel operation and groundwater management is essential for protecting the state's environmental health, while opponents could view the exemptions for Nevada-registered vessels as favoritism and a potential loophole for invasive species management. Additionally, the implications of prioritizing conservation efforts through the Nesting Bird Habitat Incentive Program could spark discussions about economic impacts on landowners, balancing land use for farming alongside wildlife preservation.