California Assembly Bill AB902

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/19/25
• Refer: 3/17/25
• Report Pass: 4/10/25
• Refer: 4/21/25
• Report Pass: 4/22/25
• Refer: 4/24/25
• Refer: 5/14/25
• Report Pass: 5/23/25
• Engrossed: 6/2/25
• Refer: 6/3/25
• Refer: 6/11/25
• Report Pass: 6/25/25
• Refer: 6/25/25
• Report Pass: 7/9/25
• Refer: 7/10/25
• Refer: 8/18/25

Caption

An act to add Section 158.6 to the Streets and Highways Code, relating to transportation.

Impact

The bill specifically affects transportation infrastructure by requiring assessments of project impacts on wildlife connectivity. It mandates that where significant impairment to wildlife connectivity is identified, appropriate measures must be implemented to avoid, minimize, or mitigate such impacts. The implementation of these measures will form part of a state-mandated local program, underscoring the collaborative responsibility between state and local agencies to ensure that infrastructure development does not further compromise wildlife habitats. Notably, any costs incurred by local agencies in complying with these new requirements will potentially be eligible for reimbursement from the state, contingent on the Commission on State Mandates' determination.

Summary

Assembly Bill 902, introduced by Assembly Member Schultz, aims to address barriers to wildlife movement created by transportation infrastructure projects in California. The bill mandates lead agencies to incorporate wildlife passage features into relevant infrastructure projects in designated connectivity areas. This requirement is part of a broader legislative framework that intends to mitigate the ecological impacts of transportation projects by recognizing and addressing the adverse effects such projects can have on wildlife habitats and behavioral patterns, particularly in the context of climate change and habitat fragmentation.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 902 appears supportive among environmental advocates who emphasize the necessity of protecting biodiversity in the face of climate change. However, there may be concerns from some local agencies regarding the feasibility and financial implications of the new requirements imposed by the bill. The discussions reflect a recognition of the need for infrastructure development to be balanced with environmental stewardship, highlighting a shared interest in maintaining ecological integrity while pursuing transportation improvements.

Contention

One notable point of contention is the exclusion of projects on the state highway system when the California Department of Transportation is the lead agency, sparking discussions about the adequacy of oversight and protection for wildlife in such scenarios. Critics may argue that this exemption undermines the bill's overarching goals, potentially allowing significant wildlife connectivity issues to go unaddressed in some of the most critical areas. Additionally, as the bill specifies certain criteria for projects subject to its requirements, there may be debates about the definition of 'connectivity areas' and the parameters used to evaluate when a project 'significantly impairs' wildlife connectivity.