This measure would memorialize the President and the Congress of the United States to recognize the unique military value of Californias defense installations and the disproportionate sacrifices California has endured in previous base realignment and closure (BRAC) rounds.

This measure would memorialize the President and the Congress of the United States to recognize the unique military value of Californias defense installations and the disproportionate sacrifices California has endured in previous base realignment and closure (BRAC) rounds.

This measure would memorialize the President and the Congress of the United States to recognize the unique military value of Californias defense installations and the disproportionate sacrifices California has endured in previous base realignment and closure (BRAC) rounds.

This measure would memorialize the President and the Congress of the United States to recognize the unique military value of Californias defense installations and the disproportionate sacrifices California has endured in previous base realignment and closure (BRAC) rounds.

WHEREAS, The federal Department of Defense conducted base realignment and closure (BRAC) rounds in 1988, 1991, 1993, 1995, and 2005. The previous BRAC rounds resulted in the closure of 25 major bases in California, and the realignment of eight other facilities; and

WHEREAS, A sixth BRAC round for 2017 has been proposed in the fiscal year 2016 federal budget; and

WHEREAS, California has been the state hardest hit by the Department of Defenses previous BRAC rounds. In the first four BRAC rounds, for example, the state absorbed 25 percent of the total base closures nationally and 11 percent of the base realignments; and

WHEREAS, California absorbed 54 percent of personnel cuts in the first four BRAC rounds, losing more federal military jobs from the closure of its military bases than the combined losses in all other states. Additionally, 300,000 private sector defense industry jobs in California were eliminated as a result of those base closures; and

WHEREAS, These base closures had a severe impact on local governments and communities, some of which continue to struggle with the transition and reuse of these closed bases; and

WHEREAS, There are currently more than 30 major federal military installations and commands remaining in California that could be closed or realigned as a result of another BRAC process; and

WHEREAS, The Department of Defense and the defense industry represent a major industry in California today, totaling more than $71 billion in direct spending and employing more than 350,000 Californians. Total effects on the economy far exceed these numbers; and

WHEREAS, For over half of a century, Californias workers, businesses, industries, and universities have contributed to our national security, utilizing their talents, capital, and skills to develop and manufacture new technologies, aircraft, satellites, missiles, and advanced weapons systems; and

WHEREAS, Military installations provide the foundation for United States defense efforts. Maintaining these installations is, therefore, critical to supporting Americas national security. California is vital to the mission and might of our United States military. Our seaports and airports, bases and equipment, research labs and testing grounds support the finest fighting force in the world; and

WHEREAS, As our nation faces new security threats in the 21st century, California remains ready to confront these dangers. In space, cyberspace, over land, at sea, and in the air, California is helping the military meet the challenges of today and tomorrow. From troop deployment to systems development and cybersecurity, training to logistics, the future of our military is here in California; and

WHEREAS, Having been the leader in the nations defense effort, California state government must lead by articulating the national security imperative of maintaining military installations within its borders; and

WHEREAS, In an effort to be proactive in retaining military facilities within California that are essential to national security, and to provide for a single, focused strategy to defend these installations, in March 2013 Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. established the Governors Military Council, in an effort to protect and expand the militarys vital role in national security and Californias economy. The council has met regularly throughout the state since its creation, and is continuing to work to protect Californias military installations and operations and to assist in recruiting new defense missions and operations to the state; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly and the Senate of the State of California, jointly, That Californias military installations possess critical military value and that California is ready to help the Department of Defense meet its goals now and in the future; and be it further

Resolved, That the Legislature of the State of California respectfully memorializes the President and the Congress of the United States, to not only recognize the unique military value of Californias defense installations, but also continue to take into consideration all of the following:

(a)Californias unparalleled land, air, and sea ranges that provide the ability to train all types of forces, year round, in every type of warfare effectively, efficiently, and economically.

(b)Californias strategic location in the Pacific Theater is a critical factor in executing the National Defense Strategy strategic shift to the Pacific region by allowing for rapid deployment to trouble spots in Asia.

(c)Californias ability to recruit and train highly skilled and educated personnel.

(d)The existing synergies between military installations and the private sector.

(e)The economic impact on existing communities in the vicinity of military installations.

(f)Our incomparable quality of life, which enhances personnel retention.

(g)The vast intellectual capital that has been developed in California since World War II.

(h)The disproportionate sacrifices California has endured in previous BRAC rounds; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the President and Vice President of the United States, to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, to the Majority Leader of the Senate, to each Senator and Representative from California in the Congress of the United States, and to the author for appropriate distribution.

WHEREAS, The federal Department of Defense conducted base realignment and closure (BRAC) rounds in 1988, 1991, 1993, 1995, and 2005. The previous BRAC rounds resulted in the closure of 25 major bases in California, and the realignment of eight other facilities; and

WHEREAS, A sixth BRAC round for 2017 has been proposed in the fiscal year 2016 federal budget; and

WHEREAS, California has been the state hardest hit by the Department of Defenses previous BRAC rounds. In the first four BRAC rounds, for example, the state absorbed 25 percent of the total base closures nationally and 11 percent of the base realignments; and

WHEREAS, California absorbed 54 percent of personnel cuts in the first four BRAC rounds, losing more federal military jobs from the closure of its military bases than the combined losses in all other states. Additionally, 300,000 private sector defense industry jobs in California were eliminated as a result of those base closures; and

WHEREAS, These base closures had a severe impact on local governments and communities, some of which continue to struggle with the transition and reuse of these closed bases; and

WHEREAS, There are currently more than 30 major federal military installations and commands remaining in California that could be closed or realigned as a result of another BRAC process; and

WHEREAS, The Department of Defense and the defense industry represent a major industry in California today, totaling more than $71 billion in direct spending and employing more than 350,000 Californians. Total effects on the economy far exceed these numbers; and

WHEREAS, For over half of a century, Californias workers, businesses, industries, and universities have contributed to our national security, utilizing their talents, capital, and skills to develop and manufacture new technologies, aircraft, satellites, missiles, and advanced weapons systems; and

WHEREAS, Military installations provide the foundation for United States defense efforts. Maintaining these installations is, therefore, critical to supporting Americas national security. California is vital to the mission and might of our United States military. Our seaports and airports, bases and equipment, research labs and testing grounds support the finest fighting force in the world; and

WHEREAS, As our nation faces new security threats in the 21st century, California remains ready to confront these dangers. In space, cyberspace, over land, at sea, and in the air, California is helping the military meet the challenges of today and tomorrow. From troop deployment to systems development and cybersecurity, training to logistics, the future of our military is here in California; and

WHEREAS, Having been the leader in the nations defense effort, California state government must lead by articulating the national security imperative of maintaining military installations within its borders; and

WHEREAS, In an effort to be proactive in retaining military facilities within California that are essential to national security, and to provide for a single, focused strategy to defend these installations, in March 2013 Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. established the Governors Military Council, in an effort to protect and expand the militarys vital role in national security and Californias economy. The council has met regularly throughout the state since its creation, and is continuing to work to protect Californias military installations and operations and to assist in recruiting new defense missions and operations to the state; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly and the Senate of the State of California, jointly, That Californias military installations possess critical military value and that California is ready to help the Department of Defense meet its goals now and in the future; and be it further

Resolved, That the Legislature of the State of California respectfully memorializes the President and the Congress of the United States, to not only recognize the unique military value of Californias defense installations, but also continue to take into consideration all of the following:

(a)Californias unparalleled land, air, and sea ranges that provide the ability to train all types of forces, year round, in every type of warfare effectively, efficiently, and economically.

(b)Californias strategic location in the Pacific Theater is a critical factor in executing the National Defense Strategy strategic shift to the Pacific region by allowing for rapid deployment to trouble spots in Asia.

(c)Californias ability to recruit and train highly skilled and educated personnel.

(d)The existing synergies between military installations and the private sector.

(e)The economic impact on existing communities in the vicinity of military installations.

(f)Our incomparable quality of life, which enhances personnel retention.

(g)The vast intellectual capital that has been developed in California since World War II.

(h)The disproportionate sacrifices California has endured in previous BRAC rounds; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the President and Vice President of the United States, to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, to the Majority Leader of the Senate, to each Senator and Representative from California in the Congress of the United States, and to the author for appropriate distribution.

WHEREAS, The federal Department of Defense conducted base realignment and closure (BRAC) rounds in 1988, 1991, 1993, 1995, and 2005. The previous BRAC rounds resulted in the closure of 25 major bases in California, and the realignment of eight other facilities; and

WHEREAS, A sixth BRAC round for 2017 has been proposed in the fiscal year 2016 federal budget; and

WHEREAS, California has been the state hardest hit by the Department of Defenses previous BRAC rounds. In the first four BRAC rounds, for example, the state absorbed 25 percent of the total base closures nationally and 11 percent of the base realignments; and

WHEREAS, California absorbed 54 percent of personnel cuts in the first four BRAC rounds, losing more federal military jobs from the closure of its military bases than the combined losses in all other states. Additionally, 300,000 private sector defense industry jobs in California were eliminated as a result of those base closures; and

WHEREAS, These base closures had a severe impact on local governments and communities, some of which continue to struggle with the transition and reuse of these closed bases; and

WHEREAS, There are currently more than 30 major federal military installations and commands remaining in California that could be closed or realigned as a result of another BRAC process; and

WHEREAS, The Department of Defense and the defense industry represent a major industry in California today, totaling more than $71 billion in direct spending and employing more than 350,000 Californians. Total effects on the economy far exceed these numbers; and

WHEREAS, For over half of a century, Californias workers, businesses, industries, and universities have contributed to our national security, utilizing their talents, capital, and skills to develop and manufacture new technologies, aircraft, satellites, missiles, and advanced weapons systems; and

WHEREAS, Military installations provide the foundation for United States defense efforts. Maintaining these installations is, therefore, critical to supporting Americas national security. California is vital to the mission and might of our United States military. Our seaports and airports, bases and equipment, research labs and testing grounds support the finest fighting force in the world; and

WHEREAS, As our nation faces new security threats in the 21st century, California remains ready to confront these dangers. In space, cyberspace, over land, at sea, and in the air, California is helping the military meet the challenges of today and tomorrow. From troop deployment to systems development and cybersecurity, training to logistics, the future of our military is here in California; and

WHEREAS, Having been the leader in the nations defense effort, California state government must lead by articulating the national security imperative of maintaining military installations within its borders; and

WHEREAS, In an effort to be proactive in retaining military facilities within California that are essential to national security, and to provide for a single, focused strategy to defend these installations, in March 2013 Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. established the Governors Military Council, in an effort to protect and expand the militarys vital role in national security and Californias economy. The council has met regularly throughout the state since its creation, and is continuing to work to protect Californias military installations and operations and to assist in recruiting new defense missions and operations to the state; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly and the Senate of the State of California, jointly, That Californias military installations possess critical military value and that California is ready to help the Department of Defense meet its goals now and in the future; and be it further

Resolved, That the Legislature of the State of California respectfully memorializes the President and the Congress of the United States, to not only recognize the unique military value of Californias defense installations, but also continue to take into consideration all of the following:

(a)Californias unparalleled land, air, and sea ranges that provide the ability to train all types of forces, year round, in every type of warfare effectively, efficiently, and economically.

(b)Californias strategic location in the Pacific Theater is a critical factor in executing the National Defense Strategy strategic shift to the Pacific region by allowing for rapid deployment to trouble spots in Asia.

(c)Californias ability to recruit and train highly skilled and educated personnel.

(d)The existing synergies between military installations and the private sector.

(e)The economic impact on existing communities in the vicinity of military installations.

(f)Our incomparable quality of life, which enhances personnel retention.

(g)The vast intellectual capital that has been developed in California since World War II.

(h)The disproportionate sacrifices California has endured in previous BRAC rounds; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the President and Vice President of the United States, to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, to the Majority Leader of the Senate, to each Senator and Representative from California in the Congress of the United States, and to the author for appropriate distribution.

WHEREAS, The federal Department of Defense conducted base realignment and closure (BRAC) rounds in 1988, 1991, 1993, 1995, and 2005. The previous BRAC rounds resulted in the closure of 25 major bases in California, and the realignment of eight other facilities; and

WHEREAS, A sixth BRAC round for 2017 has been proposed in the fiscal year 2016 federal budget; and

WHEREAS, California has been the state hardest hit by the Department of Defenses previous BRAC rounds. In the first four BRAC rounds, for example, the state absorbed 25 percent of the total base closures nationally and 11 percent of the base realignments; and

WHEREAS, California absorbed 54 percent of personnel cuts in the first four BRAC rounds, losing more federal military jobs from the closure of its military bases than the combined losses in all other states. Additionally, 300,000 private sector defense industry jobs in California were eliminated as a result of those base closures; and

WHEREAS, These base closures had a severe impact on local governments and communities, some of which continue to struggle with the transition and reuse of these closed bases; and

WHEREAS, There are currently more than 30 major federal military installations and commands remaining in California that could be closed or realigned as a result of another BRAC process; and

WHEREAS, The Department of Defense and the defense industry represent a major industry in California today, totaling more than $71 billion in direct spending and employing more than 350,000 Californians. Total effects on the economy far exceed these numbers; and

WHEREAS, For over half of a century, Californias workers, businesses, industries, and universities have contributed to our national security, utilizing their talents, capital, and skills to develop and manufacture new technologies, aircraft, satellites, missiles, and advanced weapons systems; and

WHEREAS, Military installations provide the foundation for United States defense efforts. Maintaining these installations is, therefore, critical to supporting Americas national security. California is vital to the mission and might of our United States military. Our seaports and airports, bases and equipment, research labs and testing grounds support the finest fighting force in the world; and

WHEREAS, As our nation faces new security threats in the 21st century, California remains ready to confront these dangers. In space, cyberspace, over land, at sea, and in the air, California is helping the military meet the challenges of today and tomorrow. From troop deployment to systems development and cybersecurity, training to logistics, the future of our military is here in California; and

WHEREAS, Having been the leader in the nations defense effort, California state government must lead by articulating the national security imperative of maintaining military installations within its borders; and

WHEREAS, In an effort to be proactive in retaining military facilities within California that are essential to national security, and to provide for a single, focused strategy to defend these installations, in March 2013 Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. established the Governors Military Council, in an effort to protect and expand the militarys vital role in national security and Californias economy. The council has met regularly throughout the state since its creation, and is continuing to work to protect Californias military installations and operations and to assist in recruiting new defense missions and operations to the state; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly and the Senate of the State of California, jointly, That Californias military installations possess critical military value and that California is ready to help the Department of Defense meet its goals now and in the future; and be it further

Resolved, That the Legislature of the State of California respectfully memorializes the President and the Congress of the United States, to not only recognize the unique military value of Californias defense installations, but also continue to take into consideration all of the following:

(a)Californias unparalleled land, air, and sea ranges that provide the ability to train all types of forces, year round, in every type of warfare effectively, efficiently, and economically.

(b)Californias strategic location in the Pacific Theater is a critical factor in executing the National Defense Strategy strategic shift to the Pacific region by allowing for rapid deployment to trouble spots in Asia.

(c)Californias ability to recruit and train highly skilled and educated personnel.

(d)The existing synergies between military installations and the private sector.

(e)The economic impact on existing communities in the vicinity of military installations.

(f)Our incomparable quality of life, which enhances personnel retention.

(g)The vast intellectual capital that has been developed in California since World War II.

(h)The disproportionate sacrifices California has endured in previous BRAC rounds; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the President and Vice President of the United States, to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, to the Majority Leader of the Senate, to each Senator and Representative from California in the Congress of the United States, and to the author for appropriate distribution.

 THIRD READING 

Bill No: AJR 11

Author: Burke (D)

Amended: 4/23/15 in Assembly

Vote: 21

SENATE VETERAN AFFAIRS COMMITTEE: 5-0, 6/09/15

AYES: Nielsen, Hueso, Allen, Nguyen, Roth

ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 76-0, 4/23/15 - See last page for vote

SUBJECT: Military bases: closures

SOURCE: Author

DIGEST: This resolution memorializes the President and Congress of the United States to recognize the unique military value of California’s defense installations and the disproportionate sacrifices California endured in previous base realignment and closure (BRAC) rounds.

ANALYSIS:

Existing federal law:

1. Public Law 101-510 (Defense Base Realignment and Closure Act of 1990) provides the basic framework for the transfer and disposal of military installations closed during the BRAC process.

Existing state law:

2. Requires the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) to serve as the state’s liaison to the United States Department of Defense (DoD) to facilitate coordination regarding issues of significant interest to the state and the DoD, particularly with regard to any proposed federal BRAC actions.

3. Establishes the Military Base Reuse Authority Act to plan for, finance and manage the transition of a base from military to civilian use.

This resolution:

1. Outlines the overall economic impact of the defense industry in California and prior BRAC rounds, and notes that as our nation faces new security threats in the 21st century, in space, cyberspace, over land, at sea, and in the air, California is helping the military meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

2. Requests the President and Congress to not only recognize the unique military value of California’s defense installations, but also continue to take into account all of the following:

1. California geography allows year-round training of all types of forces.

2. California's ability to recruit and train highly skilled and educated personnel.

3. The economic impact on communities located near military installations.

4. Our quality of life, which enhances personnel retention.

5. The vast intellectual capital developed in California since World War II.

6. Disproportionate sacrifices California endured in previous BRAC rounds.

Background

The federal government worked its way through four initial iterations of the BRAC process between late 1988 and 1993. Nationally, that process led to the closing of 350 large and small military bases and 55 major realignments. Reportedly, this saved federal taxpayers more than $16 billion through 2001 and six billion dollars more each subsequent year.

Prior to 1988, California had, by far, the largest military presence of any state, and was home to 335,979 (14.7%) of the Department of Defense's (DoD) total 2,275,264 personnel and 91 (18.3%) of the 495 major military bases then scattered around the nation. Not surprisingly, the BRAC cuts fell heavily on California.

Through the first four rounds, the state suffered the loss of 93,546 uniformed and civilian DoD jobs, which represented 53.8% of the net cuts nationally. California lost nearly 28% of its military personnel, while the rest of the nation saw a reduction of just 3.6%.

Unlike earlier rounds, the fifth BRAC round (2005) focused more on realignment than closure. Along with saving money, a top priority was military force readiness, consolidating assets onto centralized installations from which they can be deployed rapidly and flexibly in support of evolving global needs, and joint service missions. Implementation of the 2005 recommendations was completed in 2011.

When a military installation is closed or its tenant units merely downsized, the communities in the area are adversely affected, particularly in the short-term. Military and civilian personnel face the loss or relocation of jobs. The uniformed personnel expect to be transferred regularly, but civilian workers on base usually are long-term local residents.

Local retailers, who support the bases, directly or indirectly suffer serious revenue decreases and may even be forced to close. Area governments lose revenues needed to maintain services and infrastructure. In addition, the negotiation and execution of land transfer, environmental cleanup, and redevelopment of the properties can be a challenging, alien process to communities.

The 2005 BRAC Commission recommended that Congress authorize another BRAC round in 2015, and then every 8 years thereafter. In 2012 then-Defense Secretary Leon Panetta called for two BRAC rounds for 2013 and 2015, but Congress rejected Panetta’s requests and also declined to fund a Pentagon request in 2014 to fund another BRAC round.

Related/Prior Legislation

SB 506 (Fuller, 2015) (a) creates a process for designating a local retention authority to serve as the lead local government entity responsible for efforts to retain local military installations, and (b) establishes the Military and Aerospace Program in the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development to address state and local defense retention, base conversion and base reuse issues. (Pending, suspense, Senate Committee on Appropriations)

AB 442 (Irwin, 2015) codifies the Governor’s Military Council, under direction of the California Military Department, and provides for appointment to the Council by the Governor. (Pending, Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs)

AB 1080 (Obernolte, 2015) authorizes the Department of Finance to find that an agreement between a former redevelopment agency and a joint powers authority that was created to exercise the powers provided by the Military Base Reuse Authority Act is an enforceable obligation. (Pending, Assembly Committee on Local Government)

FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: No Local: No

SUPPORT: (Verified 6/9/15)

American Legion, Department of California

AMVETS, Department of California

California Association of County Veterans Service Officers

California State Commanders Veterans Council

Los Angeles County

Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation

Military Officers Association of America, California Council of Chapters

Rural County Representatives of California

Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California

Vietnam Veterans of America, California State Council

OPPOSITION: (Verified 6/9/15)

None received

ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 76-0, 4/23/15

AYES: Achadjian, Alejo, Travis Allen, Baker, Bigelow, Bloom, Bonilla, Bonta, Brough, Brown, Burke, Calderon, Chang, Chau, Chávez, Chiu, Chu, Cooley, Cooper, Dababneh, Dahle, Daly, Dodd, Eggman, Frazier, Beth Gaines, Gallagher, Cristina Garcia, Eduardo Garcia, Gatto, Gipson, Gomez, Gonzalez, Gordon, Gray, Grove, Hadley, Harper, Roger Hernández, Holden, Irwin, Jones, Jones-Sawyer, Kim, Lackey, Levine, Linder, Lopez, Maienschein, Mathis, Mayes, McCarty, Medina, Melendez, Mullin, Nazarian, Obernolte, Olsen, Patterson, Perea, Quirk, Rendon, Ridley-Thomas, Rodriguez, Santiago, Steinorth, Mark Stone, Thurmond, Ting, Wagner, Waldron, Weber, Wilk, Williams, Wood, Atkins

NO VOTE RECORDED: Campos, Low, O'Donnell, Salas

Prepared by: Wade Cooper Teasdale / V.A. / (916) 651-1503

6/12/15 10:29:35

**** END ****

 CONSENT 

Bill No: AJR 11

Author: Burke (D) and Atkins (D), et al

Amended: 4/23/15 in Assembly

Vote: 21

SENATE VETERANS AFFAIRS COMMITTEE: 5-0, 6/9/15

AYES: Nielsen, Hueso, Allen, Nguyen, Roth

ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 76-0, 4/23/15 - See last page for vote

SUBJECT: Military bases: closures

SOURCE: Author

DIGEST: This resolution memorializes the President and Congress of the United States to recognize the unique military value of California’s defense installations and the disproportionate sacrifices California endured in previous base realignment and closure (BRAC) rounds.

ANALYSIS:

Existing federal law:

1. Public Law 101-510 (Defense Base Realignment and Closure Act of 1990) provides the basic framework for the transfer and disposal of military installations closed during the BRAC process.

Existing state law:

2. Requires the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) to serve as the state’s liaison to the United States Department of Defense (DoD) to facilitate coordination regarding issues of significant interest to the state and the DoD, particularly with regard to any proposed federal BRAC actions.

3. Establishes the Military Base Reuse Authority Act to plan for, finance and manage the transition of a base from military to civilian use.

This resolution:

1. Outlines the overall economic impact of the defense industry in California and prior BRAC rounds, and notes that as our nation faces new security threats in the 21st century, in space, cyberspace, over land, at sea, and in the air, California is helping the military meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

2. Requests the President and Congress to not only recognize the unique military value of California’s defense installations, but also continue to take into account all of the following:

1. California geography allows year-round training of all types of forces.

2. California's ability to recruit and train highly skilled and educated personnel.

3. The economic impact on communities located near military installations.

4. Our quality of life, which enhances personnel retention.

5. The vast intellectual capital developed in California since World War II.

6. Disproportionate sacrifices California endured in previous BRAC rounds.

Background

The federal government worked its way through four initial iterations of the BRAC process between late 1988 and 1993. Nationally, that process led to the closing of 350 large and small military bases and 55 major realignments. Reportedly, this saved federal taxpayers more than $16 billion through 2001 and six billion dollars more each subsequent year.

Prior to 1988, California had, by far, the largest military presence of any state, and was home to 335,979 (14.7%) of the Department of Defense's (DoD) total 2,275,264 personnel and 91 (18.3%) of the 495 major military bases then scattered around the nation. Not surprisingly, the BRAC cuts fell heavily on California.

Through the first four rounds, the state suffered the loss of 93,546 uniformed and civilian DoD jobs, which represented 53.8% of the net cuts nationally. California lost nearly 28% of its military personnel, while the rest of the nation saw a reduction of just 3.6%.

Unlike earlier rounds, the fifth BRAC round (2005) focused more on realignment than closure. Along with saving money, a top priority was military force readiness, consolidating assets onto centralized installations from which they can be deployed rapidly and flexibly in support of evolving global needs, and joint service missions. Implementation of the 2005 recommendations was completed in 2011.

When a military installation is closed or its tenant units merely downsized, the communities in the area are adversely affected, particularly in the short-term. Military and civilian personnel face the loss or relocation of jobs. The uniformed personnel expect to be transferred regularly, but civilian workers on base usually are long-term local residents.

Local retailers, who support the bases, directly or indirectly suffer serious revenue decreases and may even be forced to close. Area governments lose revenues needed to maintain services and infrastructure. In addition, the negotiation and execution of land transfer, environmental cleanup, and redevelopment of the properties can be a challenging, alien process to communities.

The 2005 BRAC Commission recommended that Congress authorize another BRAC round in 2015, and then every 8 years thereafter. In 2012 then-Defense Secretary Leon Panetta called for two BRAC rounds for 2013 and 2015, but Congress rejected Panetta’s requests and also declined to fund a Pentagon request in 2014 to fund another BRAC round.

Related/Prior Legislation

SB 506 (Fuller, 2015) (a) creates a process for designating a local retention authority to serve as the lead local government entity responsible for efforts to retain local military installations, and (b) establishes the Military and Aerospace Program in the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development to address state and local defense retention, base conversion and base reuse issues. (Pending, suspense, Senate Committee on Appropriations)

AB 442 (Irwin, 2015) codifies the Governor’s Military Council, under direction of the California Military Department, and provides for appointment to the Council by the Governor. (Pending, Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs)

AB 1080 (Obernolte, 2015) authorizes the Department of Finance to find that an agreement between a former redevelopment agency and a joint powers authority that was created to exercise the powers provided by the Military Base Reuse Authority Act is an enforceable obligation. (Pending, Assembly Committee on Local Government)

FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: No Local: No

SUPPORT: (Verified 6/9/15)

American Legion, Department of California

AMVETS, Department of California

California Association of County Veterans Service Officers

California State Commanders Veterans Council

Los Angeles County

Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation

Military Officers Association of America, California Council of Chapters

Rural County Representatives of California

Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California

Vietnam Veterans of America, California State Council

OPPOSITION: (Verified 6/9/15)

None received

ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 76-0, 4/23/15

AYES: Achadjian, Alejo, Travis Allen, Baker, Bigelow, Bloom, Bonilla, Bonta, Brough, Brown, Burke, Calderon, Chang, Chau, Chávez, Chiu, Chu, Cooley, Cooper, Dababneh, Dahle, Daly, Dodd, Eggman, Frazier, Beth Gaines, Gallagher, Cristina Garcia, Eduardo Garcia, Gatto, Gipson, Gomez, Gonzalez, Gordon, Gray, Grove, Hadley, Harper, Roger Hernández, Holden, Irwin, Jones, Jones-Sawyer, Kim, Lackey, Levine, Linder, Lopez, Maienschein, Mathis, Mayes, McCarty, Medina, Melendez, Mullin, Nazarian, Obernolte, Olsen, Patterson, Perea, Quirk, Rendon, Ridley-Thomas, Rodriguez, Santiago, Steinorth, Mark Stone, Thurmond, Ting, Wagner, Waldron, Weber, Wilk, Williams, Wood, Atkins

NO VOTE RECORDED: Campos, Low, O'Donnell, Salas

Prepared by: Wade Cooper Teasdale / V.A. / (916) 651-1503

6/10/15 16:43:26

**** END ****

SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS AFFAIRS

Senator Jim Nielsen, Chair

2015 - 2016 Regular

Bill No: AJR 11 Hearing Date: 6/9/15

Subject: Military bases: closures.

DESCRIPTION

Summary:

Memorializes the President and Congress of the United States to recognize the unique military value of California’s defense installations and the disproportionate sacrifices California endured in previous base realignment and closure (BRAC) rounds.

Existing law:

Federal law: Public Law 101-510 (Defense Base Realignment and Closure Act of 1990) provides the basic framework for the transfer and disposal of military installations closed during the BRAC process.

State law:

1. Requires the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) to serve as the state’s liaison to the United States Department of Defense (DoD) to facilitate coordination regarding issues of significant interest to the state and the DoD, particularly with regard to any proposed federal BRAC actions.

2. Establishes the Military Base Reuse Authority Act to plan for, finance and manage the transition of a base from military to civilian use.

This bill:

1. Outlines the overall economic impact of the defense industry in California and prior BRAC rounds, and notes that as our nation faces new security threats in the 21st century, in space, cyberspace, over land, at sea, and in the air, California is helping the military meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

2. Requests the President and Congress to not only recognize the unique military value of California’s defense installations, but also continue to take into account all of the following:

1. California geography allows year-round training of all types of military forces.

2. California's ability to recruit and train highly skilled and educated personnel.

3. The economic impact on existing communities located near military installations.

4. Our incomparable quality of life, which enhances personnel retention.

5. The vast intellectual capital developed in California since World War II.

6. Disproportionate sacrifices California endured in previous BRAC rounds.

BACKGROUND

Base Realignment and Closure

California has a strategic location, unique landscape and valuable resources that help further U.S. military readiness for actions around the globe. As a result, the DoD has made many economic and technological investments in the state, including large investments in land and military installations. The state’s unique resources and the military’s investments have fostered a strong partnership, and the ensuing collaboration is vital for economic, resource management, and military readiness reasons. State and local economies are influenced by the military’s presence.

The burden of maintaining this partnership often falls on the shoulders of cities and counties. In addition to juggling the competing demands of expanding development, promoting economic development and upholding environmental quality standards, local governments must also consider the needs of local military installations in their land use planning. Traditionally, military installations were strategically located in underdeveloped areas so as to avoid land use conflicts. As the population of the state continues to grow and the land use needs of communities continue to expand outward, the need for stronger relationships and communication between local governments and the military developed. Without adequate communication and coordinated land use efforts, military missions, quality of life and public safety are increasingly jeopardized. Growth encroaching on a military installation so as to hinder its mission can contribute to the installation’s closure.

The federal government worked its way through four initial iterations of the BRAC process between late 1988 and 1993. Nationally, that process led to the closing of 350 large and small military bases and 55 major realignments. Reportedly, this saved federal taxpayers more than $16 billion through 2001 and six billion dollars more each subsequent year.

Prior to 1988, California had, by far, the largest military presence of any state, and was home to 335,979 (14.7%) of the Department of Defense's (DoD) total 2,275,264 personnel and 91 (18.3%) of the 495 major military bases then scattered around the nation. Not surprisingly, the BRAC cuts fell heavily on California.

Through the first four rounds (1988, 1991, 1993, 1995), the state suffered the loss of 93,546 uniformed and civilian DoD jobs, which represented 53.8% of the net cuts nationally. California lost nearly 28 percent of its military personnel, while the rest of the nation saw a reduction of just 3.6 percent.

In terms of major base closures, California lost 24 installations; Texas, seven; Pennsylvania, six; Illinois and New York, five each; and Florida, Indiana, Maryland and Virginia, four each.

Prior to the mid 1990's, California's response to BRAC was primarily focused on assisting local communities in the reuse of shuttered military bases. In 1994, then-Governor Wilson issued an Executive Order (W-87-94) which directed OPR to coordinate the state's effort to assist local communities in developing strategies to protect California bases from further closings, as a means of focusing on the importance military bases have on the state’s economy.

Subsequent legislation (AB 639, Alby, 1998 and SB 1099, Knight, 1999) codified an Office of Military Base Retention and Reuse (OMBRR), placing it within the Technology, Trade and Commerce Agency (TTCA) and outlining the responsibilities of the office, including the creation of a Defense Retention Grant Program. The grant program aided local communities in preparing for future BRAC rounds. SB 926 (Knight and Ashburn, 2004) then renamed OMBRR to the Office of Military and Aerospace Support (OMAS), signifying the close relationship between military and aerospace activities. OMAS exited through the 2005 BRAC round and subsequently sunsetted in January of 2007.

Unlike previous rounds, the fifth BRAC round (2005) focused more on realignment than closure. Along with saving money, a top priority was military force readiness, consolidating assets onto centralized installations from which they can be deployed rapidly and flexibly in support of an evolving global situation, and joint service missions. Implementation of the 2005 BRAC recommendations was completed in 2011.

When a military installation is closed or its tenant units merely downsized, the communities in the area are adversely affected, particularly in the short-term. Military and civilian personnel face the loss or relocation of jobs. The uniformed personnel expect to be transferred regularly, but civilian workers on base usually are long-term local residents.

Local retailers who support the bases directly or indirectly suffer serious revenue decreases and may even be forced to close. Area governments lose revenues needed to maintain services and infrastructure. In addition, the negotiation and execution of land transfer, environmental cleanup, and redevelopment of the properties can be a challenging, alien process to communities.

The enabling BRAC statute typically provides a variety of mechanisms for disposing of property at closed or realigned military installations. In the past, some federal real property has been made available by public benefit conveyances for airport, education, and homeless assistance. Some have been converted to military reserve component bases. Others have been transferred to native American tribes. For some properties, economic development conveyances have been awarded to local redevelopment authorities. Some have been put up for public sale.

The 2005 BRAC Commission recommended that Congress authorize another BRAC round in 2015, and then every 8 years thereafter. In 2012 then-Defense Secretary Leon Panetta called for two BRAC rounds for 2013 and 2015, but Congress rejected Panetta’s requests and also declined to fund a Pentagon request in 2014 to fund another BRAC round.

COMMENT

Author Statement

“California is home to over 30 major federal military installations and commands, which generate over $71 billion in direct spending, and employ more than 350,000 Californians. And yet, in spite of the economic benefits, the jobs, our universities and intellectual capital, and our strategic location, we’ve absorbed a disproportionate share of losses in the federal base relocation and closure rounds. In fact, over the last four BRAC rounds, not only did we lose more federal military jobs here in California than the combined losses of all other states, we lost 300,000 private sector defense industry jobs. AJR 11 sends a clear message to our leaders in Washington that we stand united to protect the jobs, innovation, and industry that our economy depends upon.”

Current Related Legislation

1. SB 506 (Fuller, 2015)

1. Establishes a process for the designation of a local retention authority to serve as the lead local government entity responsible for efforts to retain local military installations. (Pending, suspense file, Senate Appropriations)

2. Creates the Military and Aerospace (MA) Program under the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) to address concerns relating to state and local defense retention, base conversion and base reuse activities.

2. AB 442 (Irwin, 2015) codifies the Governor’s Military Council, under the direction of the California Military Department, and provides for appointment to the council by the Governor. (Pending, Senate Veterans Affairs)

3. AB 1080 (Obernolte, 2015) authorizes the Department of Finance to find that an agreement between a former redevelopment agency and a joint powers authority that was created to exercise the powers provided by the Military Base Reuse Authority Act is an enforceable obligation. (Pending, Assembly Local Government)

Prior Related Legislation

1. SB 245 (Rubio, 2011) would have re-established the Office of Military Support within OPR for the purpose of serving as a clearinghouse for state activities related to the military, including base closures. (Died on Suspense, Assembly Committee on Appropriations)

2. AB 2711 (Portantino, 2008) Would have required the Secretary of Business, Transportation, and Housing Agency (BT & H) to develop a comprehensive state technology and innovation plan. Included a provision that extended the sunset date for OMAS from January 1, 2009 to January 1, 2012. (Died on Suspense, Assembly Committee on Appropriations)

3. SB 1698 (Ashburn, Chapter 681, Statutes of 2006) extended the authority for OMAS for two years, until January 1, 2009, and expanded the duties of the OMAS to include outreach to the aerospace industry for the purpose of fostering aerospace enterprises in California.

4. AB 2565 (Parra, Chapter 763, Statutes of 2004) requires that the strategic plan originally prepared by the California Defense Retention and Conversion Council as it existed in 1998 be updated.

5. AB 1202 (Laird, Chapter 330, Statues of 2005) replaced obsolete references to the Defense Conversion Council with OMAS and revised the definition of military bases, required the Director of OPR to select a mediator, in consultation with the federal Office of Economic Adjustment, to reach agreement among different jurisdictions on a local reuse entity in the event that the multiple local governments cannot agree on a single reuse entity for each base.

6. SB 926 (Knight and Ashburn, Chapter 907, Statutes of 2004) consolidated the defense retention and conversion efforts in the state. The bill changed the name of OMBRR to OMAS, transferred its functions to BTH, and set forth its duties and authority with respect to state and local defense retention and conversion, consolidating all such programs under a single office within state government. The bill also provided for the use of state Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank funds by local governments to develop projects on or near a military base that enhance the base's mission.

7. SB 296 (Soto, 2001) would have enacted the Department of Defense Operational Effectiveness Preparedness Act to help prevent any further base closures in the state. (Referred but not heard in Senate Committee on Governmental Organization)

8. SB 1099 (Knight, Chapter 425, Statutes of 1999), the California Defense Retention and Conversion Act, reconstituted the defunct Defense Conversion Council as the California Defense and Retention and Conversion Council as well as required the establishment of a Defense Retention Grant Program.

9. AB 639 (Alby Chapter 952, Statutes of 1998) enacted the Defense Conversion, Reuse and Retention Omnibus Act which was designed to assist communities in both closure and retention efforts.

10. SB 268 (Roberti, Chapter 441, Statutes of 1993) created the Defense Conversion Matching Grant Program, administered by the Office of Strategic Technology within the Trade and Commerce Agency, and overseen by the Defense Conversion Council. Also appropriated $5.5 million from the Petroleum Violation Escrow Account to fund defense conversion efforts.

11. SB 458 (Hart, Chapter 445, Statutes of 1993) enacted the California Defense Conversion Act of 1993 to enable the state to assume a leadership role in converting to a peacetime economy. Also created a 15-member Defense Conversion Council in the Trade and Commerce Agency with prescribed powers and duties, including the establishment of criteria for designation of regional technology alliances.

POSITIONS

Sponsor: Author

Support:

American Legion, Department of California

AMVETS, Department of California

California Association of County Veterans Service Officers

California State Commanders Veterans Council

Los Angeles, County of

Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation

Military Officers Association of America, California Council of Chapters

Rural County Representatives of California

Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California

Vietnam Veterans of America, California State Council

Oppose: None received

-- END --

ASSEMBLY THIRD READING

ATR Bill Id:AJR 11

Author:(Burke and Atkins)

As Introduced Ver:March 4, 2015

Majority vote

SUMMARY: Memorializes the President and the Congress of the United States to recognize the unique military value of California's defense installations and the disproportionate sacrifices California has endured in previous base realignment and closure (BRAC) rounds. Specifically, this bill:

1. Outlines the overall economic impact of the defense industry in California and prior BRAC rounds, and notes that as our nation faces new security threats in the 21st century, in space, cyberspace, over land, at sea, and in the air, California is helping the military meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

2. Calls upon President Barack Obama and Congress to not only recognize the unique military value of California’s defense installations, but also continue to take into account all of the following:

   1. California's unparalleled land, air, and sea ranges that provide the ability to train all types of forces, year round;

   2. California's ability to recruit and train highly skilled and educated personnel;

   3. The economic impact on existing communities in the vicinity of military installations;

   4. Our incomparable quality of life, which enhances personnel retention;

   5. The vast intellectual capital that has been developed in California since World War II; and,

   6. The disproportionate sacrifices California has endured in previous BRAC rounds.

EXISTING LAW: The Defense Base Realignment and Closure Act of 1990 (Public Law 101-510) provides the basic framework for the transfer and disposal of military installations closed during the BRAC process.

FISCAL EFFECT: None. This measure is keyed non-fiscal by the Legislative Counsel.

COMMENTS: According to the author:

The federal Department of Defense has conducted four BRAC rounds since 1988, the most recent in 2005 which resulted in the closure of 25 major bases in California and the realignment of eight other facilities. A sixth BRAC round has been proposed for 2017. California has been hit harder than any other state in the BRAC process. In the first four rounds between 1988 and 1995, California absorbed: 25% of the total base closures nationally; 11% of the base realignments; 54% of the personnel cuts; and, 300,000 private sector defense industry jobs.

In spite of the losses, the defense industry continues to represent a major economic force in California. Statewide, there’s more than $71 billion in direct spending in the industry, and more than 350,000 jobs.

There are currently more than 30 major federal military installations and commands in California that could be closed or realigned under a new BRAC process.

A consistent theme and lesson staff has heard from the defense community in California is that vigilance, active early engagement, and a unified message are vital. These ensure that the value of California's defense community and unique installations is well-articulated and heard by decisionmakers in both the pre-BRAC phase as well as during BRAC itself.

RELATED LEGISLATION: AB 442 (Irwin) of the current legislative session, also before this Committee, would codify the existence of the Governor's Military Council. The mission of the Council, in pertinent part, is:

The Council will also articulate the military value of California bases and operations as federal leaders consider cuts and realignment to federal military operations. The Secretary of Defense recently explained that coming military cuts "will impact all 50 states and many districts across America." Recognizing these threats to military operations, the Council will highlight the ongoing military value of California installations, and of the Californians and businesses that support them.

Analysis Prepared by: John Spangler / V.A. / (916) 319-3550 FN: 0000151

Date of Hearing: April 14, 2015

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON VETERANS AFFAIRS

Jacqui Irwin, Chair

ABPCA Bill Id:AJR 11

Author:(Burke) – As Introduced Ver:March 4, 2015

SUBJECT: Military bases: closures

SUMMARY: Memorializes the President and the Congress of the United States to recognize the unique military value of California’s defense installations and the disproportionate sacrifices California has endured in previous base realignment and closure (BRAC) rounds. This bill:

1. Outlines the overall economic impact of the defense industry in California and prior BRAC rounds, and notes that as our nation faces new security threats in the 21st century, in space, cyberspace, over land, at sea, and in the air, California is helping the military meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

2. Calls upon President Obama and Congress to not only recognize the unique military value of California’s defense installations, but also continue to take into account all of the following:

1. California’s unparalleled land, air, and sea ranges that provide the ability to train all types of forces, year round;

2. California’s ability to recruit and train highly skilled and educated personnel;

3. The economic impact on existing communities in the vicinity of military installations;

4. Our incomparable quality of life, which enhances personnel retention;

5. The vast intellectual capital that has been developed in California since World War II; and,

6. The disproportionate sacrifices California has endured in previous BRAC rounds.

EXISTING LAW: The Defense Base Realignment and Closure Act of 1990 (P.L. 101-510) provides the basic framework for the transfer and disposal of military installations closed during the BRAC process.

FISCAL EFFECT: This measure is not keyed fiscal.

COMMENTS: According to the author:

The federal Department of Defense has conducted four BRAC rounds since 1988, the most recent in 2005 which resulted in the closure of 25 major bases in California and the realignment of eight other facilities. A sixth BRAC round has been proposed for 2017. California has been hit harder than any other state in the BRAC process. In the first four rounds between 1988 and 1995, California absorbed: 25 percent of the total base closures nationally; 11 percent of the base realignments; 54 percent of the personnel cuts; and, 300,000 private sector defense industry jobs.

In spite of the losses, the defense industry continues to represent a major economic force in California. Statewide, there’s more than $71 billion in direct spending in the industry, and more than 350,000 jobs.

There are currently more than 30 major federal military installations and commands in California that could be closed or realigned under a new BRAC process.

A consistent theme and lesson learned staff has heard from the defense community in California is that vigilance, active early engagement, and a unified message are vital. These ensure that the value of California's defense community and unique installations is well-articulated and heard by decisionmakers in both the pre-BRAC phase as well as during BRAC itself.

RELATED LEGISLATION: AB 442 (Irwin), also before this Committee, would codify the existence of the Governor's Military Council. The mission of the Council, in pertinent part, is:

The Council will also articulate the military value of California bases and operations as federal leaders consider cuts and realignment to federal military operations. The Secretary of Defense recently explained that coming military cuts “will impact all 50 states and many districts across America." Recognizing these threats to military operations, the Council will highlight the ongoing military value of California installations, and of the Californians and businesses that support them.

REGISTERED SUPPORT / OPPOSITION:

Support

County of Los Angeles.

Opposition

None on File.

Analysis Prepared by: John Spangler / V.A. / (916) 319-3550