SB 246: Climate change adaptation.
- Session Year: 2015-2016
- House: Senate
- Latest Version Date: 2015-10-08
(1)The Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 designates the State Air Resources Board as the state agency charged with monitoring and regulating sources of emissions of greenhouse gases. The state board is required to adopt a statewide greenhouse gas emissions limit equivalent to the statewide greenhouse gas emissions level in 1990 to be achieved by 2020 and to adopt rules and regulations in an open public process to achieve the maximum, technologically feasible, and cost-effective greenhouse gas emissions reductions. The act requires all state agencies to consider and implement strategies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. An executive order establishes a climate action team consisting of specified ex officio members and requires the team to make a specified biannual report to the Legislature and Governor.
This bill would establish the Integrated Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program to be administered by the Office of Planning and Research to coordinate regional and local efforts with state climate adaptation strategies to adapt to the impacts of climate change, as specified. The bill also would require, within one year of an update to the Safeguarding California Plan, the Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with the Natural Resources Agency, the Office of Planning and Research, and relevant public and private entities, to review and update, as necessary, the Adaptation Planning Guide, as specified. The bill would establish an advisory council, as specified, to support the goals of the Office of Planning and Research as identified by the bill. The bill would require the Office of Planning and Research to establish a clearinghouse for climate adaptation information, as specified.
(2)The Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act, with specified exceptions, requires that meetings of a state body be open and public and that all persons be permitted to attend.
Existing law establishes the Strategic Growth Council and requires the council, among other things, to identify and review the activities and funding programs of member state agencies that may be coordinated to improve air and water quality. Existing law also requires the councils meetings be open to the public and subject to the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act.
This bill would specify certain council meetings that are not subject to the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act.
(1)The Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 designates the State Air Resources Board as the state agency charged with monitoring and regulating sources of emissions of greenhouse gases. The state board is required to adopt a statewide greenhouse gas emissions limit equivalent to the statewide greenhouse gas emissions level in 1990 to be achieved by 2020 and to adopt rules and regulations in an open public process to achieve the maximum, technologically feasible, and cost-effective greenhouse gas emissions reductions. The act requires all state agencies to consider and implement strategies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. An executive order establishes a climate action team consisting of specified ex officio members and requires the team to make a specified biannual report to the Legislature and Governor.
This bill would establish the Integrated Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program to be administered by the Office of Planning and Research to coordinate regional and local efforts with state climate adaptation strategies to adapt to the impacts of climate change, as specified. The bill also would require, within one year of an update to the Safeguarding California Plan, the Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with the Natural Resources Agency, the Office of Planning and Research, and relevant public and private entities, to review and update, as necessary, the Adaptation Planning Guide, as specified. The bill would establish an advisory council, as specified, to support the goals of the Office of Planning and Research as identified by the bill. The bill would require the Office of Planning and Research to establish a clearinghouse for climate adaptation information, as specified.
(2)The Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act, with specified exceptions, requires that meetings of a state body be open and public and that all persons be permitted to attend.
Existing law establishes the Strategic Growth Council and requires the council, among other things, to identify and review the activities and funding programs of member state agencies that may be coordinated to improve air and water quality. Existing law also requires the councils meetings be open to the public and subject to the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act.
This bill would specify certain council meetings that are not subject to the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act.
The
(1)The Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 designates the State Air Resources Board as the state agency charged with monitoring and regulating sources of emissions of greenhouse gases. The state board is required to adopt a statewide greenhouse gas emissions limit equivalent to the statewide greenhouse gas emissions level in 1990 to be achieved by 2020 and to adopt rules and regulations in an open public process to achieve the maximum, technologically feasible, and cost-effective greenhouse gas emissions reductions. The act requires all state agencies to consider and implement strategies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. An executive order establishes a climate action team consisting of specified ex officio members and requires the team to make a specified biannual report to the Legislature and Governor.
This bill would establish the Integrated Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program to be administered by the Office of Planning and Research to coordinate state, regional, and local regional and local efforts with state climate adaptation strategies to adapt to the impacts of climate change, as specified. The bill also would require, within one year of an update to the Safeguarding California Plan, the Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with the Natural Resources Agency, the Office of Planning and Research, and relevant public and private entities, to review and update, as necessary, the Adaptation Planning Guide, as specified. The bill would establish an advisory council, as specified, to support the goals of the Office of Planning, Planning and Research as identified by the bill. The bill would require the Office of Planning, Planning and Research to establish a clearinghouse for climate adaptation information, as specified.
(2)The Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act, with specified exceptions, requires that meetings of a state body be open and public and that all persons be permitted to attend.
Existing law establishes the Strategic Growth Council and requires the council, among other things, to identify and review the activities and funding programs of member state agencies that may be coordinated to improve air and water quality. Existing law also requires the councils meetings be open to the public and subject to the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act.
This bill would specify certain council meetings that are not subject to the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act.
The California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 designates the State Air Resources Board as the state agency charged with monitoring and regulating sources of emissions of greenhouse gases. The state board is required to adopt a statewide greenhouse gas emissions limit equivalent to the statewide greenhouse gas emissions level in 1990 to be achieved by 2020 and to adopt rules and regulations in an open public process to achieve the maximum, technologically feasible, and cost-effective greenhouse gas emissions reductions. The act requires all state agencies to consider and implement strategies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. An executive order establishes a climate action team consisting of specified ex officio members and requires the team to make a specified biannual report to the Legislature and Governor.
This bill would establish the Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program to be administered by the Office of Planning and Research to coordinate state, regional, and local agency efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change, as specified. The bill would require the California Environmental Protection Agency, the Natural Resources Agency, and the office, no later than January 1, 2017, and every 3 years thereafter, to update the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy, as specified. The bill also would require the office, no later than January 1, 2018, and every 3 years thereafter, require, within one year of an update to the Safeguarding California Plan, the Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with the Natural Resources Agency, the Office of Planning and Research, and relevant public and private entities, to update review and update, as necessary, the Adaptation Planning Guide, as specified. The bill would establish an advisory council, as specified, to support those the goals of the office. Office of Planning, and Research as identified by the bill. The bill would require the office Office of Planning, and Research to establish a clearinghouse for climate adaptation information, as specified.
The California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 designates the State Air Resources Board as the state agency charged with monitoring and regulating sources of emissions of greenhouse gases. The state board is required to adopt a statewide greenhouse gas emissions limit equivalent to the statewide greenhouse gas emissions level in 1990 to be achieved by 2020 and to adopt rules and regulations in an open public process to achieve the maximum, technologically feasible, and cost-effective greenhouse gas emissions reductions. The act requires all state agencies to consider and implement strategies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. An executive order establishes a climate action team consisting of specified ex officio members and requires the team to make a specified biannual report to the Legislature and Governor.
This bill would establish the Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program to be administered by the Office of Planning and Research to coordinate state, regional, and local agency efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change, as specified. The bill would require the California Environmental Protection Agency, the Natural Resources Agency, and the office, no later than January 1, 2019, 2017, and every 3 years thereafter, to update the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy, as specified. The bill also would require the Office of Planning and Research office, no later than January 1, 2017, 2018, and every 3 years thereafter, to update the Adaptation Planning Guide, as specified. The bill would establish an advisory council, as specified, to support those goals of the Office of Planning and Research. office. The bill would require the office to establish a clearinghouse for climate adaptation information, as specified.
The California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 designates the State Air Resources Board as the state agency charged with monitoring and regulating sources of emissions of greenhouse gases. The state board is required to adopt a statewide greenhouse gas emissions limit equivalent to the statewide greenhouse gas emissions level in 1990 to be achieved by 2020 and to adopt rules and regulations in an open public process to achieve the maximum, technologically feasible, and cost-effective greenhouse gas emissions reductions. The act requires all state agencies to consider and implement strategies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. An executive order establishes a climate action team consisting of specified ex officio members and requires the team to make a specified biannual report to the Legislature and Governor.
This bill would create the Climate Action Team, under the direction of the Secretary for Environmental Protection and consisting of representatives from specified state agencies, and would require the team to be responsible for coordinating the states climate policy to achieve the states climate change goals. The bill would require the team Natural Resources Agency, no later than January 1, 2019, and every 5 years thereafter, to update the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy, as specified. The bill also would require the team and the Office of Planning and Research, no later than January 1, 2017, and every 5 years thereafter, to update the Adaptation Planning Guide, as specified. The bill would establish an advisory council, as specified, to the team. support those goals of the Office of Planning and Research.
The California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 designates the State Air Resources Board as the state agency charged with monitoring and regulating sources of emissions of greenhouse gases. The state board is required to adopt a statewide greenhouse gas emissions limit equivalent to the statewide greenhouse gas emissions level in 1990 to be achieved by 2020 and to adopt rules and regulations in an open public process to achieve the maximum, technologically feasible, and cost-effective greenhouse gas emissions reductions. The act requires all state agencies to consider and implement strategies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. An executive order establishes a climate action team consisting of specified ex officio members and requires the team to make a specified biannual report to the Legislature and Governor.
This bill would create the Climate Action Team, under the direction of the Secretary for Environmental Protection and consisting of representatives from specified state agencies, and would require the team to be responsible for coordinating the states climate policy to achieve the states climate change goals. The bill would require the team, no later than January 1, 2019, and every 5 years thereafter, to update the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy and the Safeguarding California Plan, Strategy, as specified. The bill also would require the team and the Office of Planning and Research, no later than January 1, 2017, and every 5 years thereafter, to update the Adaptation Planning Guide, as specified. The bill would establish an advisory council, as specified, to the team.
The California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 designates the State Air Resources Board as the state agency charged with monitoring and regulating sources of emissions of greenhouse gases. The state board is required to adopt a statewide greenhouse gas emissions limit equivalent to the statewide greenhouse gas emissions level in 1990 to be achieved by 2020 and to adopt rules and regulations in an open public process to achieve the maximum, technologically feasible, and cost-effective greenhouse gas emissions reductions. The act requires all state agencies to consider and implement strategies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. An executive order establishes a climate action team consisting of specified ex officio members and requires the team to make a specified biannual report to the Legislature and Governor.
This bill would create the Climate Action Team, under the direction of the Secretary for Environmental Protection and consisting of representatives from specified state agencies, that and would require the team to be responsible for coordinating the states climate policy to achieve the states climate change goals, identifying specified unavoidable climate change impacts, developing and implementing specified mitigation and adaptation plans, coordinating climate change policies with specified groups, and identifying and disseminating information to local governments and regional bodies. goals. The bill would require the team, no later than January 1, 2019, and every 5 years thereafter, to update the Climate Adaptation Strategy and the Safeguarding California Plan, as specified. The bill also would require the team and the Office of Planning and Research, no later than January 1, 2017, and every 5 years thereafter, to update the Adaptation Planning Guide, as specified. The bill would establish an advisory council, as specified, to the team.
The California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 designates the State Air Resources Board as the state agency charged with monitoring and regulating sources of emissions of greenhouse gases. The state board is required to adopt a statewide greenhouse gas emissions limit equivalent to the statewide greenhouse gas emissions level in 1990 to be achieved by 2020 and to adopt rules and regulations in an open public process to achieve the maximum, technologically feasible, and cost-effective greenhouse gas emissions reductions. The act requires all state agencies to consider and implement strategies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
This bill would create the Climate Action Team, under the direction of the Secretary for Environmental Protection and consisting of representatives from specified state agencies, that would be responsible for coordinating the states climate policy to achieve the states climate change goals, identifying specified unavoidable climate change impacts, developing and implementing specified mitigation and adaptation plans, coordinating climate change policies with specified groups, and identifying and disseminating information to local governments and regional bodies.
For purposes of this part, office means the Office of Planning and Research.
71352.The Legislature finds and declares:
(a)The state has been a leader in climate mitigation efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Now, and in the coming years, it is critical for California and the global community to continue and intensify those efforts in order to avoid the most severe impacts from a changing climate. However, because the global climate system changes slowly, impacts are ongoing and will inevitably worsen. In order to address the challenges posed by a changing climate, the state must invest in building resiliency and strengthening adaptation efforts at the state, regional, and local levels using the best-available science.
(b)A principle of the states adaptation strategy document, Safeguarding California, is to prioritize actions that not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but also help the state prepare for climate change impacts. Improved coordination, implementation, and integration of adaptation planning efforts and funding in the states climate policies can directly protect the states infrastructure, communities, environmental quality, public health, safety and security, natural resources, and economy from the unavoidable impacts of climate change for decades to come.
(c)In order to have a cohesive and comprehensive response to climate change impacts, the state must have integrated planning with coordinated strategies across state, regional, and local governments and agencies.
(d)The office is established as the comprehensive state planning agency that shall engage in the formulation, evaluation, and updating of long-range goals for factors that shape statewide development patterns and significantly influence the quality of the states environment, in addition to assisting state, regional, and local agencies in a variety of research and planning efforts, pursuant to Section 65040 of the Government Code. Therefore, the office is well-positioned to work with regional and local entities across the state, coordinating with state climate adaptation strategies.
(e)It is the intent of the Legislature, therefore, that adaptation strategies to build resiliency to the risks and impacts from climate change be integrated in state policies, projects, and permitting processes, and that the office serve as a coordinating body for adaptation projects and goals across California.
71354.The Integrated Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program is hereby established to be administered by the office. No later than January 1, 2017, the Director of State Planning and Research shall establish the program to coordinate regional and local efforts with state climate adaptation strategies to adapt to the impacts of climate change with, to the extent feasible, an emphasis on climate equity considerations across sectors and regions and strategies that benefit both greenhouse gas emissions reductions and adaptation efforts, in order to facilitate the development of holistic, complimentary strategies for adapting to climate change impacts. In order to achieve these goals, the program shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:
(a)Working with and coordinating local and regional efforts for climate adaptation and resilience, including, but not limited to, the following:
(1)Developing tools and guidance.
(2)Promoting and coordinating state agency support for local and regional efforts.
(3)Informing state-led programs, including state planning processes, grant programs, and guideline development, to better reflect the goals, efforts, and challenges faced by local and regional entities pursuing adaptation, preparedness, and resilience. This should occur through regular coordination between the office, the Climate Action Team, which was established by Executive Order S-3-05, the Strategic Growth Council, and other state agencies, including, but not limited to, the Office of Emergency Services, the California Environmental Protection Agency, the Natural Resources Agency, the Transportation Agency, the State Department of Public Health, and the Department of Food and Agriculture.
(b)Assisting the Office of Emergency Services and other relevant state agencies with coordinating regular reviews and updates, as needed, to the Adaptation Planning Guide, pursuant to Section 71356, and maintaining a copy of the guide, or an electronic link to a copy of the guide posted, at a minimum, on the states Climate Change Portal and the offices Internet Web site.
(c)Coordinating and maintaining the states clearinghouse for climate adaptation information, pursuant to Section 71360.
(d)Conducting regular meetings with the advisory council established pursuant to Section 71358 in order to have technical support, as well as expertise and advice from regional and local experts working in climate adaptation throughout the research and planning processes, as described in this section.
71356.(a)Within one year of an update to the Safeguarding California Plan, the Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with the Natural Resources Agency, the office, and relevant public and private entities, shall review and update, as necessary, the Adaptation Planning Guide to provide tools and guidance to regional and local governments and agencies in creating and implementing climate adaptation and community resiliency plans and projects. An Adaptation Planning Guide update shall be informed by the climate adaptation clearinghouse established pursuant to Section 71360 and the scientific assessments and recommendations in the most recent update of the Safeguarding California Plan. An Adaptation Planning Guide update shall consider the nexus between climate adaptation, community resiliency, public safety, and security, provide information and planning support for assessing climate vulnerabilities across impact sectors and regions and developing adaptation strategies that can be tailored to meet local needs, and include, at a minimum, all of the following:
(1)Guidance for coordinating adaptation planning activities among state and local governments and regional collaboratives.
(2)Adaptation planning guidance and strategies for natural hazards exacerbated by climate change.
(3)Guidance for conducting vulnerability assessments and identifying risk reduction strategies for communities.
(4)Identification of climate impact regions and descriptions of climate impacts to be considered for each region.
(5)Assistance with the interpretation of climate science as it relates to local and regional impacts.
(b)As part of updating the Adaptation Planning Guide, the Office of Emergency Services, in consultation with the office and, as needed, with the advisory council created pursuant to Section 71358, shall hold public meetings in the northern, southern, and central regions of the state to obtain input from the public and leaders in local and regional climate preparedness.
71358.(a)An advisory council to the office is hereby established. The advisory council shall be comprised of members from a range of disciplines, in order to provide scientific and technical support, and from regional and local governments and entities. The advisory council shall support the offices goals, as identified in this part, to facilitate coordination among state, regional, and local agency efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
(b)Members of the advisory council shall have expertise in the intersection of climate change and areas that include, but need not be limited to, any of the following:
(1)Public health.
(2)Environmental quality.
(3)Environmental justice.
(4)Agriculture.
(5)Transportation and housing.
(6)Energy.
(7)Natural resources and water.
(8)Planning.
(9)Recycling and waste management.
(10)Local or regional government.
(11)Tribal issues.
(12)Emergency services and public safety.
(c)The advisory council shall meet with the office as needed, but not less than three times a year.
71360.(a)(1)The office shall coordinate with appropriate entities, including state, regional, or local agencies, to establish a clearinghouse for climate adaptation information for use by state, regional, and local entities.
(2)The clearinghouse shall be a centralized source of information that provides available climate data to guide decisionmakers at state, regional, and local levels when planning for and implementing climate adaptation projects to promote resiliency to climate change. The clearinghouse may include, but is not limited to, any of the following:
(A)A collection of the best-available resources that may include projections and models, vulnerability assessments, and downscaled data for climate change impacts throughout the state, when available, at statewide, regional, and local levels for both near-term and longer term timescales, including year 2050 and year 2100 projections. Climate change impacts may include, but are not limited to, impacts to public health, natural resources, environmental quality, and infrastructure.
(B)Tools that allow for the visualization or identification of regional and local impacts across the state and that integrate best-available data on vulnerable populations and infrastructure.
(C)A library of relevant white papers, case studies, research articles, and climate adaptation best practices that are searchable by relevance to region, locality, and sector.
(D)Information concerning funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects.
(E)Regionally prioritized best-practice adaptation projects that, as appropriate, integrate efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the state.
(b)The clearinghouse shall be regularly updated.
SEC. 2.The Legislature finds that because the Strategic Growth Council consists primarily of the Governors cabinet members and because the council is designed to facilitate communication, coordinate policy outcomes, and improve efficiencies among member agencies and departments, informal discussion and interaction between and among agency secretaries and their staff should be encouraged and is a normal function of government.
SEC. 3.Section 75123 of the Public Resources Code is amended to read:75123.(a)A meeting of the council, including a meeting related to the development of grant guidelines and policies and the approval of grants, shall be subject to the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act (Article 9 (commencing with Section 11120) of Chapter 1 of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), except that, for purposes of this section, meeting shall not include a meeting at which:
(1)Council members are meeting as members of the Governors cabinet.
(2)Council staff and member agency staff are meeting to discuss, but not take final action on, any of the following:
(A)State agency coordination to improve air and water quality, improve natural resource protection, increase the availability of affordable housing, improve transportation, revitalize urban and community centers in a sustainable manner, and other priorities specified in subdivision (a) of Section 75125.
(B)Preliminary policy recommendations and investment strategies to the Governor, the Legislature, and appropriate state agencies to encourage the development of sustainable communities, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 75125.
(C)Developing grant guidelines, such as those specified in Section 75125, that are otherwise subject to public participation process requirements.
(b)The council may sponsor conferences, symposia, and other public forums, to seek a broad range of public advice regarding local, regional, and natural resource planning, sustainable development, and strategies to reduce and mitigate climate change.
For purposes of this part, office means the Office of Planning and Research.
71352.The Legislature finds and declares:
(a)The state has been a leader in climate mitigation efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Now, and in the coming years, it is critical for California and the global community to continue and intensify those efforts in order to avoid the most severe impacts from a changing climate. However, because the global climate system changes slowly, impacts are ongoing and will inevitably worsen. In order to address the challenges posed by a changing climate, the state must invest in building resiliency and strengthening adaptation efforts at the state, regional, and local levels using the best-available science.
(b)A principle of the states adaptation strategy document, Safeguarding California, is to prioritize actions that not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but also help the state prepare for climate change impacts. Improved coordination, implementation, and integration of adaptation planning efforts and funding in the states climate policies can directly protect the states infrastructure, communities, environmental quality, public health, safety and security, natural resources, and economy from the unavoidable impacts of climate change for decades to come.
(c)In order to have a cohesive and comprehensive response to climate change impacts, the state must have integrated planning with coordinated strategies across state, regional, and local governments and agencies.
(d)The office is established as the comprehensive state planning agency that shall engage in the formulation, evaluation, and updating of long-range goals for factors that shape statewide development patterns and significantly influence the quality of the states environment, in addition to assisting state, regional, and local agencies in a variety of research and planning efforts, pursuant to Section 65040 of the Government Code. Therefore, the office is well-positioned to work with regional and local entities across the state, coordinating with state climate adaptation strategies.
(e)It is the intent of the Legislature, therefore, that adaptation strategies to build resiliency to the risks and impacts from climate change be integrated in state policies, projects, and permitting processes, and that the office serve as a coordinating body for adaptation projects and goals across California.
71354.The Integrated Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program is hereby established to be administered by the office. No later than January 1, 2017, the Director of State Planning and Research shall establish the program to coordinate regional and local efforts with state climate adaptation strategies to adapt to the impacts of climate change with, to the extent feasible, an emphasis on climate equity considerations across sectors and regions and strategies that benefit both greenhouse gas emissions reductions and adaptation efforts, in order to facilitate the development of holistic, complimentary strategies for adapting to climate change impacts. In order to achieve these goals, the program shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:
(a)Working with and coordinating local and regional efforts for climate adaptation and resilience, including, but not limited to, the following:
(1)Developing tools and guidance.
(2)Promoting and coordinating state agency support for local and regional efforts.
(3)Informing state-led programs, including state planning processes, grant programs, and guideline development, to better reflect the goals, efforts, and challenges faced by local and regional entities pursuing adaptation, preparedness, and resilience. This should occur through regular coordination between the office, the Climate Action Team, which was established by Executive Order S-3-05, the Strategic Growth Council, and other state agencies, including, but not limited to, the Office of Emergency Services, the California Environmental Protection Agency, the Natural Resources Agency, the Transportation Agency, the State Department of Public Health, and the Department of Food and Agriculture.
(b)Assisting the Office of Emergency Services and other relevant state agencies with coordinating regular reviews and updates, as needed, to the Adaptation Planning Guide, pursuant to Section 71356, and maintaining a copy of the guide, or an electronic link to a copy of the guide posted, at a minimum, on the states Climate Change Portal and the offices Internet Web site.
(c)Coordinating and maintaining the states clearinghouse for climate adaptation information, pursuant to Section 71360.
(d)Conducting regular meetings with the advisory council established pursuant to Section 71358 in order to have technical support, as well as expertise and advice from regional and local experts working in climate adaptation throughout the research and planning processes, as described in this section.
71356.(a)Within one year of an update to the Safeguarding California Plan, the Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with the Natural Resources Agency, the office, and relevant public and private entities, shall review and update, as necessary, the Adaptation Planning Guide to provide tools and guidance to regional and local governments and agencies in creating and implementing climate adaptation and community resiliency plans and projects. An Adaptation Planning Guide update shall be informed by the climate adaptation clearinghouse established pursuant to Section 71360 and the scientific assessments and recommendations in the most recent update of the Safeguarding California Plan. An Adaptation Planning Guide update shall consider the nexus between climate adaptation, community resiliency, public safety, and security, provide information and planning support for assessing climate vulnerabilities across impact sectors and regions and developing adaptation strategies that can be tailored to meet local needs, and include, at a minimum, all of the following:
(1)Guidance for coordinating adaptation planning activities among state and local governments and regional collaboratives.
(2)Adaptation planning guidance and strategies for natural hazards exacerbated by climate change.
(3)Guidance for conducting vulnerability assessments and identifying risk reduction strategies for communities.
(4)Identification of climate impact regions and descriptions of climate impacts to be considered for each region.
(5)Assistance with the interpretation of climate science as it relates to local and regional impacts.
(b)As part of updating the Adaptation Planning Guide, the Office of Emergency Services, in consultation with the office and, as needed, with the advisory council created pursuant to Section 71358, shall hold public meetings in the northern, southern, and central regions of the state to obtain input from the public and leaders in local and regional climate preparedness.
71358.(a)An advisory council to the office is hereby established. The advisory council shall be comprised of members from a range of disciplines, in order to provide scientific and technical support, and from regional and local governments and entities. The advisory council shall support the offices goals, as identified in this part, to facilitate coordination among state, regional, and local agency efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
(b)Members of the advisory council shall have expertise in the intersection of climate change and areas that include, but need not be limited to, any of the following:
(1)Public health.
(2)Environmental quality.
(3)Environmental justice.
(4)Agriculture.
(5)Transportation and housing.
(6)Energy.
(7)Natural resources and water.
(8)Planning.
(9)Recycling and waste management.
(10)Local or regional government.
(11)Tribal issues.
(12)Emergency services and public safety.
(c)The advisory council shall meet with the office as needed, but not less than three times a year.
71360.(a)(1)The office shall coordinate with appropriate entities, including state, regional, or local agencies, to establish a clearinghouse for climate adaptation information for use by state, regional, and local entities.
(2)The clearinghouse shall be a centralized source of information that provides available climate data to guide decisionmakers at state, regional, and local levels when planning for and implementing climate adaptation projects to promote resiliency to climate change. The clearinghouse may include, but is not limited to, any of the following:
(A)A collection of the best-available resources that may include projections and models, vulnerability assessments, and downscaled data for climate change impacts throughout the state, when available, at statewide, regional, and local levels for both near-term and longer term timescales, including year 2050 and year 2100 projections. Climate change impacts may include, but are not limited to, impacts to public health, natural resources, environmental quality, and infrastructure.
(B)Tools that allow for the visualization or identification of regional and local impacts across the state and that integrate best-available data on vulnerable populations and infrastructure.
(C)A library of relevant white papers, case studies, research articles, and climate adaptation best practices that are searchable by relevance to region, locality, and sector.
(D)Information concerning funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects.
(E)Regionally prioritized best-practice adaptation projects that, as appropriate, integrate efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the state.
(b)The clearinghouse shall be regularly updated.
SEC. 2.The Legislature finds that because the Strategic Growth Council consists primarily of the Governors cabinet members and because the council is designed to facilitate communication, coordinate policy outcomes, and improve efficiencies among member agencies and departments, informal discussion and interaction between and among agency secretaries and their staff should be encouraged and is a normal function of government.
SEC. 3.Section 75123 of the Public Resources Code is amended to read:75123.(a)A meeting of the council, including a meeting related to the development of grant guidelines and policies and the approval of grants, shall be subject to the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act (Article 9 (commencing with Section 11120) of Chapter 1 of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), except that, for purposes of this section, meeting shall not include a meeting at which:
(1)Council members are meeting as members of the Governors cabinet.
(2)Council staff and member agency staff are meeting to discuss, but not take final action on, any of the following:
(A)State agency coordination to improve air and water quality, improve natural resource protection, increase the availability of affordable housing, improve transportation, revitalize urban and community centers in a sustainable manner, and other priorities specified in subdivision (a) of Section 75125.
(B)Preliminary policy recommendations and investment strategies to the Governor, the Legislature, and appropriate state agencies to encourage the development of sustainable communities, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 75125.
(C)Developing grant guidelines, such as those specified in Section 75125, that are otherwise subject to public participation process requirements.
(b)The council may sponsor conferences, symposia, and other public forums, to seek a broad range of public advice regarding local, regional, and natural resource planning, sustainable development, and strategies to reduce and mitigate climate change.
For purposes of this part, office means the Office of Planning and Research.
71352.The Legislature finds and declares:
(a)The state has been a leader in climate mitigation efforts. However, the states efforts alone will not prevent global climate change from occurring, as noted in the update to the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy issued in July 2014. Due to the inevitability of climate change impacts on the state, efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Now, and in the coming years, it is critical for California and the global community to continue and intensify those efforts in order to avoid the most severe impacts from a changing climate. However, because the global climate system changes slowly, impacts are ongoing and will inevitably worsen. In order to address the challenges posed by a changing climate, the state must invest in building resiliency and strengthening adaptation efforts at the state, regional, and local levels using the best-available science.
(b)Improved coordination of existing A principle of the states adaptation strategy document, Safeguarding California, is to prioritize actions that not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but also help the state prepare for climate change impacts. Improved coordination, implementation, and integration of adaptation planning efforts and funding by the state, as well as increased implementation and support of adaptation programs, in the states climate policies can directly protect the states infrastructure, communities, environmental quality, public health, safety and security, natural resources, and economy from the unavoidable impacts of climate change for decades to come.
(c)In order to have a cohesive and comprehensive adaptation response to climate change impacts, the state must have integrated planning with coordinated strategies across state, regional, and local governments and agencies.
(d)The office is established as the comprehensive state planning agency that shall engage in the formulation, evaluation, and updating of long-range goals for factors that shape statewide development patterns and significantly influence the quality of the states environment, in addition to assisting state, regional, and local agencies in a variety of research and planning efforts, pursuant to Section 65040 of the Government Code. Therefore, the office is well-positioned to work with state, regional, and local regional and local entities across the state in state, coordinating with state climate adaptation strategies.
(e)It is the intent of the Legislature, therefore, that adaptation strategies to build resiliency to the risks and impacts from climate change be integrated in state policies, projects, and permitting processes, and that the office serve as a coordinating body for adaptation projects and goals across California.
71354.The Integrated Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program is hereby established to be administered by the office. No later than January 1, 2017, the Director of State Planning and Research shall establish the program to coordinate state, regional, and local regional and local efforts with state climate adaptation strategies to adapt to the impacts of climate change with, to the extent feasible, an emphasis on climate equity considerations across sectors and regions and strategies that benefit both greenhouse gas emissions reductions and adaptation efforts, in order to facilitate the development of holistic, complimentary strategies for adapting to climate change impacts. The In order to achieve these goals, the program shall include, but is not be limited to, all of the following:
(a)Working with and coordinating local and regional efforts for climate adaptation and resilience, including, but not limited to, the following:
(1)Developing tools and guidance.
(2)Promoting and coordinating state agency support for local and regional efforts.
(3)Ensuring that state planning, guidance, and guidelines Informing state-led programs, including state planning processes, grant programs, and guideline development, to better reflect the efforts goals, efforts, and challenges faced by local and regional entities pursuing adaptation adaptation, preparedness, and resilience. This should occur through regular coordination between the office, the Climate Action Team, which was established by Executive Order S-3-05, the Strategic Growth Council, and other state agencies, including, but not limited to, the Office of Emergency Services, the California Environmental Protection Agency, the Natural Resources Agency, the Transportation Agency, the State Department of Public Health, and the Department of Food and Agriculture.
(b)Assisting the Office of Emergency Services and other relevant state agencies with coordinating regular reviews and updates, as needed, to the Adaptation Planning Guide, pursuant to Section 71356, and maintaining a copy of the guide, or an electronic link to a copy of the guide hosted on another Internet Web site, on posted, at a minimum, on the states Climate Change Portal and the offices Internet Web site.
(c)Coordinating and maintaining the states clearinghouse for climate adaptation information, pursuant to Section 71360.
(d)Conducting regular meetings with the advisory council established pursuant to Section 71358 in order to have technical support, as well as expertise and advice from regional and local experts working in climate adaptation throughout the research and planning processes, as described in this section.
71356.(a)Within one year of an update to the Safeguarding California Plan, the Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with the Natural Resources Agency, the office, and relevant public and private entities, shall review and update, as necessary, the Adaptation Planning Guide to provide tools and guidance to regional and local governments and agencies in creating and implementing climate adaptation and community resiliency plans and projects. An Adaptation Planning Guide update shall be informed by the climate adaptation clearinghouse established pursuant to Section 71360 and the scientific assessments and recommendations in the most recent update of the Safeguarding California Plan. An Adaptation Planning Guide update shall consider the nexus between climate adaptation, community resiliency, public safety, and security, provide information and planning support for assessing climate vulnerabilities across impact sectors and regions and developing adaptation strategies that can be tailored to meet local needs. needs, and include, at a minimum, all of the following:
(1)Guidance for coordinating adaptation planning activities among state and local governments and regional collaboratives.
(2)Adaptation planning guidance and strategies for natural hazards exacerbated by climate change.
(3)Guidance for conducting vulnerability assessments and identifying risk reduction strategies for communities.
(4)Identification of climate impact regions and descriptions of climate impacts to be considered for each region.
(5)Assistance with the interpretation of climate science as it relates to local and regional impacts.
(b)As part of updating the Adaptation Planning Guide, the Office of Emergency Services, in consultation with the office and, as needed, with the advisory council created pursuant to Section 71358 71358, shall hold public meetings and workshops in the northern, southern, and central regions of the state to obtain input from the public and leaders in local and regional climate preparedness.
71358.(a)An advisory council to the office is hereby established. The advisory council shall be comprised of members from a range of disciplines, in order to provide scientific and technical support, and from regional and local governments and entities. The advisory council shall support the offices goals, as identified in this part, to facilitate coordination among state, regional, and local agency efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
(b)Members of the advisory council shall have expertise in the intersection of climate change and areas that include, but need not be limited to, any of the following:
(1)Public health.
(2)Environmental quality.
(3)Environmental justice.
(4)Agriculture.
(5)Transportation and housing.
(6)Energy.
(7)Natural resources and water.
(8)Planning.
(9)Recycling and waste management.
(10)Local or regional government.
(11)Tribal issues.
(12)Emergency services. services and public safety.
(c)The advisory council shall meet with the office as needed, but not less than three times a year.
71360.(a)(1)The office shall coordinate with appropriate entities, including state, regional, or local agencies, to establish a clearinghouse for climate adaptation information for use by state, regional, and local entities.
(2)The clearinghouse shall be a centralized source of information that provides available climate data to guide decisionmakers at state, regional, and local levels when planning for and implementing climate adaptation projects to promote resiliency to climate change. The clearinghouse may include, but is not limited to, any of the following:
(A)A collection of the best-available resources that may include projections and models, vulnerability assessments, and downscaled data for climate change impacts throughout the state, when available, at statewide, regional, and local levels for both near-term and longer term timescales, including year 2050 and year 2100 projections. Climate change impacts may include, but are not limited to, impacts to public health, natural resources, environmental quality, and infrastructure.
(B)Tools that allow for the visualization or identification of regional and local impacts across the state and that integrate best-available data on vulnerable populations and infrastructure.
(C)A library of relevant white papers, case studies, research articles, and climate adaptation best practices that are searchable by relevance to region, locality, and sector.
(D)Information concerning funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects.
(E)Regionally prioritized best-practice adaptation projects that, as appropriate, integrate efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the state.
(b)The clearinghouse shall be regularly updated.
SEC. 2.The Legislature finds that because the Strategic Growth Council consists primarily of the Governors cabinet members and because the council is designed to facilitate communication, coordinate policy outcomes, and improve efficiencies among member agencies and departments, informal discussion and interaction between and among agency secretaries and their staff should be encouraged and is a normal function of government.
SEC. 3.Section 75123 of the Public Resources Code is amended to read:75123.(a)A meeting of the council, including a meeting related to the development of grant guidelines and policies and the approval of grants, shall be subject to the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act (Article 9 (commencing with Section 11120) of Chapter 1 of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), except that, for purposes of this section, meeting shall not include a meeting at which council which:
(1)Council members are meeting as members of the Governors cabinet.
(2)Council staff and member agency staff are meeting to discuss, but not take final action on, any of the following:
(A)State agency coordination to improve air and water quality, improve natural resource protection, increase the availability of affordable housing, improve transportation, revitalize urban and community centers in a sustainable manner, and other priorities specified in subdivision (a) of Section 75125.
(B)Preliminary policy recommendations and investment strategies to the Governor, the Legislature, and appropriate state agencies to encourage the development of sustainable communities, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 75125.
(C)Developing grant guidelines, such as those specified in Section 75125, that are otherwise subject to public participation process requirements.
(b)The council may sponsor conferences, symposia, and other public forums, to seek a broad range of public advice regarding local, regional, and natural resource planning, sustainable development, and strategies to reduce and mitigate climate change.
For purposes of this part, office means the Office of Planning and Research.
71352.The Legislature finds and declares:
(a)The state has been a leader in climate mitigation efforts. However, the states efforts alone will not prevent global climate change from occurring, as noted in the update to the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy issued in July 2014. Due to the inevitability of climate change impacts on the state, the state must invest in building resiliency and strengthening adaptation efforts at the state, regional, and local levels using the best-available science.
(b)Improved coordination of existing adaptation planning efforts and funding by the state, as well as increased implementation and support of adaptation programs, can directly protect the states infrastructure, communities, environmental quality, public health, natural resources, and economy from the unavoidable impacts of climate change for decades to come.
(c)In order to have a cohesive and comprehensive adaptation response to climate change impacts, the state must have integrated planning with coordinated strategies across state, regional, and local governments and agencies.
(d)The office is established as the comprehensive state planning agency that shall engage in the formulation, evaluation, and updating of long-range goals for factors that shape statewide development patterns and significantly influence the quality of the states environment, in addition to assisting state, regional, and local agencies in a variety of research and planning efforts, pursuant to Section 65040 of the Government Code. Therefore, the office is well-positioned to work with state, regional, and local entities across the state in coordinating climate adaptation strategies.
(e)It is the intent of the Legislature, therefore, that adaptation strategies to build resiliency to the risks and impacts from climate change be integrated in state policies, projects, and permitting processes, and that the office serve as a coordinating body for adaptation projects and goals across California.
71354.The Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program is hereby established to be administered by the office. No later than January 1, 2017, the Director of State Planning and Research shall establish the program to coordinate state, regional, and local agency efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change with, to the extent feasible, an emphasis on climate equity considerations across sectors and regions and strategies that benefit both reductions greenhouse gas emissions reductions and adaptation efforts. efforts, in order to facilitate the development of holistic, complimentary strategies for adapting to climate change impacts. The program shall include include, but is not limited to, all of the following:
(a)Assisting state agencies in coordinating the planning and preparation of regular updates to the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy, pursuant to Section 71356, and maintain copies of the updates on the offices Internet Web site.
(a)Working with and coordinating local and regional efforts for climate adaptation and resilience, including, but not limited to, the following:
(1)Developing tools and guidance.
(2)Promoting and coordinating state agency support for local and regional efforts.
(3)Ensuring that state planning, guidance, and guidelines reflect the efforts and challenges faced by local and regional entities pursuing adaptation and resilience.
(b)Working with Assisting the Office of Emergency Services and other relevant state agencies and public and private entities to create with coordinating regular updates reviews and updates, as needed, to the Adaptation Planning Guide, pursuant to Section 71358, 71356, and maintain copies maintaining a copy of the updates guide, or an electronic link to a copy of the guide hosted on another Internet Web site, on the offices Internet Web site. One or more lead state agencies may be designated to prepare the updates.
(c)Coordinating and maintaining the states clearinghouse for climate adaptation information, pursuant to Section 71362. 71360.
(d)Conducting regular meetings with the advisory council established pursuant to Section 71360 71358 in order to have technical support, as well as expertise and advice from regional and local experts working in climate adaptation throughout the research and planning processes, as described in this section.
71356.No later than January 1, 2017, and every three years thereafter, the California Environmental Protection Agency, the Natural Resources Agency, and the office, in coordination with those agencies that have previously led sector-specific adaptation efforts and any relevant public and private entities, shall update the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy, for which the first update was titled Safeguarding California: Reducing Climate Risk, to incorporate advances in climate science and risk management options regarding regional and statewide climate change impacts and vulnerabilities and recommended adaptation strategies.
71358. 71356.(a)No later than January 1, 2018, and every three years thereafter, Within one year of an update to the Safeguarding California Plan, the Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with the Natural Resources Agency, the office, in coordination with all and relevant public and private entities, shall update review and update, as necessary, the Adaptation Planning Guide to provide tools and guidance to regional and local governments and agencies in creating and implementing climate adaptation and community resiliency plans and projects. The An Adaptation Planning Guide updates update shall be informed by the climate adaptation clearinghouse established pursuant to Section 71362 71360 and the scientific assessments and recommendations in the most recent update prepared pursuant to Section 71356. The of the Safeguarding California Plan. An Adaptation Planning Guide updates update shall include, at a minimum, all of the following: provide information and planning support for assessing climate vulnerabilities across impact sectors and regions and developing adaptation strategies that can be tailored to meet local needs.
(1)Information concerning funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects.
(2)Regionally prioritized best-practice adaptation projects that, where appropriate, integrate efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the state.
(3)Recommended metrics and indicators to track the progress and success of adaptation efforts locally, regionally, and statewide.
(4)Adaptation planning templates for use by local governments and regional collaboratives.
(5)Guidelines for coordinating adaptation activities among state and local governments and regional collaboratives.
(b)As part of updating the Adaptation Planning Guide, the office with the advisory council created pursuant to Section 71360 71358 shall hold public meetings and workshops at least annually in the northern, southern, and central regions of the state to obtain input from the public and leaders in local and regional climate preparedness.
71360. 71358.(a)An advisory council to the office is hereby established. The advisory council shall be comprised of 15 members from a range of disciplines disciplines, in order to provide scientific and technical support, as well as and from regional and local perspectives, to governments and entities. The advisory council shall support the offices goals goals, as identified in this part. part, to facilitate coordination among state, regional, and local agency efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
(b)Members of the advisory council shall be appointed based on their have expertise in the intersection of climate change and areas that include, but need not be limited to, any of the following:
(1)Public health.
(2)Environmental quality.
(3)Environmental justice.
(4)Agriculture.
(5)Transportation and housing.
(6)Energy.
(7)Natural resources and water.
(8)Planning.
(9)Recycling and waste management.
(10)Local or regional government.
(11)Tribal issues.
(12)Emergency services.
(c)Five members of the advisory council shall be appointed by the Governor, five members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the Assembly, and five members shall be appointed by the Senate Committee on Rules. All members shall be appointed to four-year terms with the possibility of reappointment.
(d)
(c)The advisory council shall meet with the office as needed needed, but not less than three times a year.
(e)The members of the advisory council shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties.
71362.71360.(a)(1)The office shall coordinate with appropriate entities, including state, regional, or local agencies, to establish a clearinghouse for climate adaptation information for use by state, regional, and local entities.
(2)The clearinghouse shall be a centralized source of information that provides downscaled available climate data to guide decisionmakers at state, regional, and local levels when planning for and implementing climate adaptation projects to promote resiliency to climate change. The clearinghouse shall include all may include, but is not limited to, any of the following:
(A)A collection of the best-available science, resources that may include projections and models, and vulnerability assessments of assessments, and downscaled data for climate change impacts throughout the state state, when available, at statewide, regional, and local levels for both near-term and longer term timescales, including year 2050 and year 2100 projections. Climate change impacts shall may include, but are not limited to, impacts to public health, natural resources, environmental quality, and infrastructure.
(B)Tools that allow for the visualization or identification of regional and local impacts across the state and that integrate best-available data on vulnerable populations and infrastructure.
(C)A library of relevant white papers, case studies, research articles, and climate adaptation best practices that are searchable by relevance to region, locality, and sector.
(D)Information concerning funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects.
(E)Regionally prioritized best-practice adaptation projects that, as appropriate, integrate efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the state.
(b)The clearinghouse shall be regularly updated with relevant information to improve its functionality as a tool to guide decisionmaking at state, regional, and local levels. updated.
For purposes of this part, office means the Office of Planning and Research.
71350.71352.The Legislature finds and declares:
(a)The state has been a leader in climate mitigation efforts. However, the states efforts alone will not prevent global climate change from occurring, as noted in the update to the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy issued in July 2014. Due to the inevitability of climate change impacts on the state, the state must invest in building resiliency and strengthening adaptation efforts at the state, regional, and local levels using the best-available science.
(b)Improved coordination of existing adaptation planning efforts and funding by the state, as well as increased implementation and support of adaptation programs, can directly protect the states infrastructure, communities, environmental quality, public health, natural resources, and economy from the unavoidable impacts of climate change for decades to come.
(c)In order to have a cohesive and comprehensive adaptation response to climate change impacts, the state must have integrated planning with coordinated strategies across state, regional, and local governments and agencies.
(d)The office is established as the comprehensive state planning agency that shall engage in the formulation, evaluation, and updating of long-range goals for factors that shape statewide development patterns and significantly influence the quality of the states environment, in addition to assisting state, regional, and local agencies in a variety of research and planning efforts, pursuant to Section 65040 of the Government Code. Therefore, the office is well-positioned to work with state, regional, and local entities across the state in coordinating climate adaptation strategies.
(c)
(e)It is the intent of the Legislature, therefore, that adaptation strategies to build resiliency to the risks and impacts from climate change be integrated in state policies, projects, and permitting processes. processes, and that the office serve as a coordinating body for adaptation projects and goals across California.
71354.The Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program is hereby established to be administered by the office. No later than January 1, 2017, the Director of State Planning and Research shall establish the program to coordinate state, regional, and local agency efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change with, to the extent feasible, an emphasis on climate equity considerations across sectors and regions and strategies that benefit both reductions greenhouse gas emissions and adaptation efforts. The program shall include all of the following:
(a)Assisting state agencies in coordinating the planning and preparation of regular updates to the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy, pursuant to Section 71356, and maintain copies of the updates on the offices Internet Web site.
(b)Working with relevant state agencies and public and private entities to create regular updates to the Adaptation Planning Guide, pursuant to Section 71358, and maintain copies of the updates on the offices Internet Web site. One or more lead state agencies may be designated to prepare the updates.
(c)Coordinating and maintaining the states clearinghouse for climate adaptation information, pursuant to Section 71362.
(d)Conducting regular meetings with the advisory council established pursuant to Section 71360 in order to have expertise and advice from regional and local experts working in climate adaptation throughout the research and planning processes, as described in this section.
71352.71356.No later than January 1, 2019, the Natural Resources Agency, 2017, and every three years thereafter, the California Environmental Protection Agency, the Natural Resources Agency, and the office, in coordination with those agencies that have previously led sector-specific adaptation efforts and any relevant public and private entities, shall update the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy, for which the first update was titled Safeguarding California: Reducing Climate Risk, to incorporate advances in climate science and risk management options regarding regional and statewide climate change impacts and vulnerabilities and recommended adaptation strategies.
71355.71358.(a)No later than January 1, 2017, the Office of Planning and Research, 2018, and every three years thereafter, the office, in coordination with all relevant public and private entities, shall update the Adaptation Planning Guide to provide tools and guidance to regional and local governments and agencies in creating and implementing climate adaptation and community resiliency plans and projects. The Adaptation Planning Guide updates shall be informed by the climate adaptation clearinghouse established pursuant to Section 71362 and the scientific assessments and recommendations in the most recent update prepared pursuant to Section 71352 71356. The Adaptation Planning Guide updates shall include, at a minimum, all of the following:
(1)Information concerning funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects.
(2)Regionally prioritized best-practice adaptation projects that, where appropriate, integrate efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the state.
(3)Recommended metrics and indicators to track the progress and success of adaptation efforts locally, regionally, and statewide.
(4)Adaptation planning templates for use by local governments and regional collaboratives.
(5)Guidelines for coordinating adaptation activities among state and local governments and regional collaboratives.
(b)As part of updating the Adaptation Planning Guide, the office with the advisory council created pursuant to Section 71360 shall hold public meetings and workshops at least annually in the northern, southern, and central regions of the state to obtain input from the public and leaders in local and regional climate preparedness.
71360.(a)An advisory council to the Office of Planning and Research office is hereby established. The advisory council shall be comprised of 15 members from a range of disciplines in order to provide scientific and technical support, as well as regional and local perspectives, to support the Office of Planning and Researchs offices goals identified in Section 71355 this part.
(b)Members of the advisory council shall be appointed based on their expertise in the intersection of climate change and areas that include, but need not be limited to, any of the following:
(1)Public health.
(2)Environmental quality.
(3)Environmental justice.
(4)Agriculture.
(5)Transportation and housing.
(6)Energy.
(7)Natural resources and water.
(8)Planning.
(9)Recycling and waste management.
(10)Local or regional government.
(c)Five members of the advisory council shall be appointed by the Governor, five members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the Assembly, and five members shall be appointed by the Senate Committee on Rules. All members shall be appointed to four-year terms with the possibility of reappointment.
(d)The advisory council shall meet with the Office of Planning and Research office as needed but not less than three times a year.
(e)The members of the advisory council shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties.
71362.(a)(1)The office shall coordinate with appropriate entities, including state, regional, or local agencies, to establish a clearinghouse for climate adaptation information for use by state, regional, and local entities.
(2)The clearinghouse shall be a centralized source of information that provides downscaled climate data to guide decisionmakers at state, regional, and local levels when planning for and implementing climate adaptation projects to promote resiliency to climate change. The clearinghouse shall include all of the following:
(A)A collection of the best-available science, projections and models, and vulnerability assessments of climate change impacts throughout the state at statewide, regional, and local levels for both near-term and longer term timescales, including year 2050 and year 2100 projections. Climate change impacts shall include, but are not limited to, impacts to public health, natural resources, environmental quality, and infrastructure.
(B)Tools that allow for the visualization or identification of regional and local impacts across the state and that integrate best-available data on vulnerable populations and infrastructure.
(C)A library of relevant white papers, case studies, research articles, and climate adaptation best practices that are searchable by relevance to region, locality, and sector.
(b)The clearinghouse shall be regularly updated with relevant information to improve its functionality as a tool to guide decisionmaking at state, regional, and local levels.
The Legislature finds and declares:
(a)The state has been a leader in climate mitigation efforts. However, the states efforts alone will not prevent global climate change from occurring, as noted in the update to the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy issued in July 2014. Due to the inevitability of climate change impacts on the state, the state must invest in building resiliency and strengthening adaptation efforts at the state, regional, and local levels using the best-available science.
(b)Improved coordination of existing adaptation planning efforts and funding by the state, as well as increased implementation and support of adaptation programs, can directly protect the states infrastructure, communities, environmental quality, public health, natural resources, and economy from the unavoidable impacts of climate change for decades to come.
(c)It is the intent of the Legislature, therefore, that adaptation strategies to build resiliency to the risks and impacts from climate change be integrated in state policies, projects, and permitting processes.
(d)Furthermore, the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Division 25.5 (commencing with Section 38500) of the Health and Safety Code) directs the Climate Action Team established by the Governor to coordinate the overall climate policy as provided in Executive Order S-3-05 and directs all state agencies to consider and implement strategies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Given the Climate Action Teams experience in coordinating climate change research, vulnerability assessments, and resiliency and adaptation planning documents, it is well-suited to lead the collaborative efforts across state government to enhance the states planning, investment, and implementation of adaptation and resiliency guidelines and programs.
71352.(a)The Climate Action Team is hereby established in state government and shall consist of the following members:
(1)The Secretary for Environmental Protection, who shall serve as the chairperson of the Climate Action Team, who shall coordinate oversight of the efforts made to meet the greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets established pursuant to the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Division 25.5 (commencing with Section 38500) of the Health and Safety Code), and who shall coordinate the states adaptation efforts to increase Californias resiliency to climate change impacts.
(2)The Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency.
(3)The Chair of the State Air Resources Board.
(4)The Chair of the State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission.
(5)The President of the Public Utilities Commission.
(6)The Secretary of Transportation.
(7)The Secretary of Food and Agriculture.
(8)The Secretary of State and Consumer Services.
(9)The Secretary of California Health and Human Services.
(10)The Director of the Office of Planning and Research.
(11)The Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development.
(12)The Director of Emergency Services.
(b)Upon the determination of the Secretary for Environmental Protection, ex officio representatives from other state departments may be added to the Climate Action Team as necessary to provide assistance and expertise in particular subject areas.
(c)The Climate Action Team may establish multiagency staff working groups to provide technical support for the work of the team.
71354.The Climate Action Team, under the direction of the Secretary for Environmental Protection, shall coordinate the climate policy of the state to achieve the states climate change goals and all of the following:
(a)The coordination of climate change policies with state agencies and departments, other states, the federal government, and other nations to identify the most effective strategies and methods to reduce greenhouse gases, adapt to ongoing and future climate change, coordinate climate change research efforts, and facilitate the development of integrated and cost-effective regional, national, and international climate change programs.
(b)The coordination and efficient use of existing state resources, programs, and funds, as well as the recommendation of additional policies and investment strategies, to achieve the requirements of this part.
(c)The consideration of climate change impacts and incorporation of mitigation and adaptation strategies, where appropriate, in state planning and policies.
(d)The identification and dissemination of information to local governments and regional bodies that will assist in meeting the requirements of this section.
71356. 71352.No later than January 1, 2019, and every five years thereafter, the Climate Action Team, the Natural Resources Agency, in coordination with relevant public and private entities, shall update the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy, for which the first update was titled Safeguarding California: Reducing Climate Risk, to incorporate advances in climate science and risk management options regarding regional and statewide climate change impacts and vulnerabilities and recommended adaptation strategies.
71358. 71355.(a)No later than January 1, 2017, and every five years thereafter, the Climate Action Team and the Office of Planning and Research, in coordination with all relevant public and private entities, shall update the Adaptation Planning Guide to provide tools and guidance to regional and local governments and agencies in creating and implementing climate adaptation and community resiliency plans and projects. The Adaptation Planning Guide updates shall be informed by the scientific assessments and recommendations in the most recent update prepared pursuant to Section 71356. 71352. The Adaptation Planning Guide updates shall include, at a minimum, all of the following:
(1)Information concerning funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects.
(2)Regionally prioritized best-practice adaptation projects that, where appropriate, integrate efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the state.
(3)Recommended metrics and indicators to track the progress and success of adaptation efforts locally, regionally, and statewide.
(4)Adaptation planning templates for use by local governments and regional collaboratives.
(5)Guidelines for coordinating adaptation activities among state and local governments and regional collaboratives.
(b)As part of updating the Adaptation Planning Guide, the Climate Action Team and the advisory council created pursuant to Section 71360 shall hold public meetings and workshops at least annually in the northern, southern, and central regions of the state to obtain input from the public and leaders in local and regional climate preparedness.
71360.(a)An advisory council to the Climate Action Team Office of Planning and Research is hereby established. The advisory council shall be comprised of 15 members from a range of disciplines within the purview of the Climate Action Team in order to provide scientific and technical support, as well as regional and local perspectives, to support the Office of Planning and Researchs goals of the Climate Action Team, and to assist the members and working groups in their research and planning activities. identified in Section 71355.
(b)Members of the advisory council shall be appointed based on their expertise in the intersection of climate change and areas that include, but need not be limited to, any of the following:
(1)Public health.
(2)Environmental quality.
(3)Environmental justice.
(4)Agriculture.
(5)Transportation and housing.
(6)Energy.
(7)Natural resources and water.
(8)Planning.
(9)Recycling and waste management.
(10)Local or regional government.
(c)Five members of the advisory council shall be appointed by the Climate Action Team Governor, five members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the Assembly, and five members shall be appointed by the Senate Committee on Rules. All members shall be appointed to four-year terms with the possibility of reappointment.
(d)The advisory council shall meet with the Climate Action Team and related working groups and councils Office of Planning and Research as needed but not less than three times a year.
(e)The members of the advisory council shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties.
The Legislature finds and declares:
(a)The state has been a leader in climate mitigation efforts. However, the states efforts alone will not prevent global climate change from occurring, as noted in the 2014 Safeguarding California Plan. update to the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy issued in July 2014. Due to the inevitability of climate change impacts on the state, the state must invest in building resiliency and strengthening adaptation efforts at the state, regional, and local levels using the best-available science.
(b)Improved coordination of existing adaptation planning efforts and funding by the state, as well as increased implementation and support of adaptation programs, can directly protect the states infrastructure, communities, environmental quality, public health, natural resources, and economy from the unavoidable impacts of climate change for decades to come.
(c)It is the intent of the Legislature, therefore, that adaptation strategies to build resiliency to the risks and impacts from climate change be integrated in state policies, projects, and permitting processes.
(d)Furthermore, the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Division 25.5 (commencing with Section 38500) of the Health and Safety Code) directs the Climate Action Team established by the Governor to coordinate the overall climate policy as provided in Executive Order S-3-05 and directs all state agencies to consider and implement strategies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Given the Climate Action Teams experience in coordinating climate change research, vulnerability assessments, and resiliency and adaptation planning documents, it is well-suited to lead the collaborative efforts across state government to enhance the states planning, investment, and implementation of adaptation and resiliency guidelines and programs.
71352.(a)The Climate Action Team is hereby established in state government and shall consist of the following members:
(1)The Secretary for Environmental Protection, who shall serve as the chairperson of the Climate Action Team, who shall coordinate oversight of the efforts made to meet the greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets established pursuant to the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Division 25.5 (commencing with Section 38500) of the Health and Safety Code), and who shall coordinate the states adaptation efforts to increase Californias resiliency to climate change impacts.
(2)The Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency.
(3)The Chair of the State Air Resources Board.
(4)The Chair of the State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission.
(5)The President of the Public Utilities Commission.
(6)The Secretary of Transportation.
(7)The Secretary of Food and Agriculture.
(8)The Secretary of State and Consumer Services.
(9)The Secretary of California Health and Human Services.
(10)The Director of the Office of Planning and Research.
(11)The Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development.
(12)The Director of Emergency Services.
(b)Upon the determination of the Secretary for Environmental Protection, ex officio representatives from other state departments may be added to the Climate Action Team as necessary to provide assistance and expertise in particular subject areas.
(c)The Climate Action Team may establish multiagency staff working groups to provide technical support for the work of the team.
71354.The Climate Action Team, under the direction of the Secretary for Environmental Protection, shall coordinate the climate policy of the state to achieve the states climate change goals and all of the following:
(a)The coordination of climate change policies with state agencies and departments, other states, the federal government, and other nations to identify the most effective strategies and methods to reduce greenhouse gases, adapt to ongoing and future climate change, coordinate climate change research efforts, and facilitate the development of integrated and cost-effective regional, national, and international climate change programs.
(b)The coordination and efficient use of existing state resources, programs, and funds, as well as the recommendation of additional policies and investment strategies, to achieve the requirements of this part.
(c)The consideration of climate change impacts and incorporation of mitigation and adaptation strategies, where appropriate, in state planning and policies.
(d)The identification and dissemination of information to local governments and regional bodies that will assist in meeting the requirements of this section.
71356.No later than January 1, 2019, and every five years thereafter, the Climate Action Team, in coordination with relevant public and private entities, shall update the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy and the Safeguarding California Plan Strategy, for which the first update was titled Safeguarding California: Reducing Climate Risk, to incorporate advances in climate science and risk management options regarding regional and statewide climate change impacts and vulnerabilities and recommended adaptation strategies.
71358.(a)No later than January 1, 2017, and every five years thereafter, the Climate Action Team and the Office of Planning and Research, in coordination with all relevant public and private entities, shall update the Adaptation Planning Guide to provide tools and guidance to regional and local governments and agencies in creating and implementing climate adaptation and community resiliency plans and projects. The Adaptation Planning Guide updates shall be informed by the scientific assessments and recommendations in the Climate Adaptation Strategy, updated most recent update prepared pursuant to Section 71356. The Adaptation Planning Guide updates shall include, at a minimum, all of the following:
(1)Funding Information concerning funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects.
(2)Regionally prioritized best-practice adaptation projects that, where appropriate, integrate efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the state.
(3)Recommended metrics and indicators to track the progress and success of adaptation efforts locally, regionally, and statewide.
(4)Adaptation planning templates for use by local governments and regional collaboratives.
(5)Guidelines for coordinating adaptation activities among state and local governments and regional collaboratives.
(b)As part of updating the Adaptation Planning Guide, the Climate Action Team and the advisory council created pursuant to Section 71360 shall hold public meetings and workshops at least annually in the northern, southern, and central regions of the state to obtain input from the public and leaders in local and regional climate preparedness.
71360.(a)An advisory council to the Climate Action Team is hereby established. The advisory council shall be comprised of 15 members from a range of disciplines within the purview of the Climate Action Team in order to provide scientific and technical support, as well as regional and local perspectives, to support the goals of the Climate Action Team, and to assist the members and working groups in their research and planning activities.
(b)Members of the advisory council shall be appointed based on their expertise in the intersection of climate change and areas that include, but need not be limited to, any of the following:
(1)Public health.
(2)Environmental quality.
(3)Environmental justice.
(4)Agriculture.
(5)Transportation and housing.
(6)Energy.
(7)Natural resources and water.
(8)Planning.
(9)Recycling and waste management.
(10)Local or regional government.
(c)Five members of the advisory council shall be appointed by the Climate Action Team, five members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the Assembly, and five members shall be appointed by the Senate Committee on Rules. All members shall be appointed to four-year terms with the possibility of reappointment.
(d)The advisory council shall meet with the Climate Action Team and related working groups and councils as needed but not less than three times a year.
(e)The members of the advisory council shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties.
The Legislature finds and declares:
(a)The state has been a leader in climate mitigation efforts. However, the states efforts alone will not prevent global climate change from occurring, as noted in the 2014 Safeguarding California Plan. Due to the inevitability of climate change impacts on the state, the state must invest in building resiliency and strengthening adaptation efforts at the state, regional, and local levels using the best-available science.
(b)Improved coordination of existing adaptation planning efforts and funding by the state, as well as increased implementation and support of adaptation programs, can directly protect the states infrastructure, communities, environmental quality, public health, natural resources, and economy from the unavoidable impacts of climate change for decades to come.
(c)It is the intent of the Legislature, therefore, that adaptation strategies to build resiliency to the risks and impacts from climate change be integrated in state policies, projects, and permitting processes.
(c)The
(d)Furthermore, the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Division 25.5 (commencing with Section 38500) of the Health and Safety Code) directs the Climate Action Team established by the Governor to coordinate the overall climate policy as provided in Executive Order S-3-05 and directs all state agencies to consider and implement strategies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Given the Climate Action Teams experience in coordinating climate change research, vulnerability assessments, and resiliency and adaptation planning documents, it is well-suited to lead the collaborative efforts across state government to enhance the states planning, investment, and implementation of adaptation and resiliency guidelines and programs.
71352.(a)The Climate Action Team is hereby established in state government and shall consist of the following members:
(1)The Secretary for Environmental Protection, who shall serve as the chairperson of the Climate Action Team, who shall coordinate oversight of the efforts made to meet the greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets established pursuant to the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Division 25.5 (commencing with Section 38500) of the Health and Safety Code), and who shall coordinate the states adaptation efforts to increase Californias resiliency to climate change impacts.
(2)The Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency.
(3)The Chair of the State Air Resources Board.
(4)The Chair of the State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission.
(5)The President of the Public Utilities Commission.
(6)The Secretary of the Transportation Agency. Transportation.
(7)The Secretary of Food and Agriculture.
(8)The Secretary of State and Consumer Services.
(9)The Secretary of California Health and Human Services.
(10)The Director of the Office of Planning and Research.
(11)The Secretary for of Labor and Workforce Development.
(12)The Director of Emergency Services.
(b)Upon the determination of the Secretary for Environmental Protection, ex officio representatives from other state departments and representatives from academic research institutions may be added to the Climate Action Team as necessary to provide assistance and expertise in particular subject areas.
(c)Multiagency The Climate Action Team may establish multiagency staff working groups may be formed by the Climate Action Team to provide technical support for the work of the team in administrative domains, including, but not limited to, public health, environmental quality, agriculture, biodiversity and habitat, forestry, energy, land use, recycling and waste management, coastal and delta resources, regional and international policy development, state operations, water, and climate change research. groups to provide technical support for the work of the team.
71354.The Climate Action Team, under the direction of the Secretary for Environmental Protection, shall coordinate the climate policy of the state to achieve the states climate change goals and all of the following:
(a)The identification of unavoidable climate change impacts to the states natural resources, environmental quality, public health, and infrastructure.
(b)The development and implementation of mitigation and adaptation plans to protect the public health, environmental quality, natural resources, and economy of the state.
(c)
(a)The coordination of climate change policies with state agencies and departments, other states, the federal government, and other nations to identify the most effective strategies and methods to reduce greenhouse gases, adapt to ongoing and future climate change, coordinate climate change research efforts, and facilitate the development of integrated and cost-effective regional, national, and international climate change programs.
(d)
(b)The coordination and efficient use of existing state resources, programs, and funds, as well as the recommendation of additional policies and investment strategies, to achieve the requirements of this section part.
(c)The consideration of climate change impacts and incorporation of mitigation and adaptation strategies, where appropriate, in state planning and policies.
(e)
(d)The identification and dissemination of information to local governments and regional bodies that will assist in meeting the requirements of this section.
71356.No later than January 1, 2019, and every five years thereafter, the Climate Action Team, in coordination with relevant public and private entities, shall update the Climate Adaptation Strategy and the Safeguarding California Plan to incorporate advances in climate science and risk management options regarding regional and statewide climate change impacts and vulnerabilities and recommended adaptation strategies.
71358.(a)No later than January 1, 2017, and every five years thereafter, the Climate Action Team and the Office of Planning and Research, in coordination with all relevant public and private entities, shall update the Adaptation Planning Guide to provide tools and guidance to regional and local governments and agencies in creating and implementing climate adaptation and community resiliency plans and projects. The Adaptation Planning Guide updates shall be informed by the scientific assessments and recommendations in the Climate Adaptation Strategy, updated pursuant to Section 71356. The Adaptation Planning Guide updates shall include, at a minimum, all of the following:
(1)Funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects.
(2)Regionally prioritized best-practice adaptation projects that, where appropriate, integrate efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the state.
(3)Recommended metrics and indicators to track the progress and success of adaptation efforts locally, regionally, and statewide.
(4)Adaptation planning templates for use by local governments and regional collaboratives.
(5)Guidelines for coordinating adaptation activities among state and local governments and regional collaboratives.
(b)As part of updating the Adaptation Planning Guide, the Climate Action Team and the advisory council created pursuant to Section 71360 shall hold public meetings and workshops at least annually in the northern, southern, and central regions of the state to obtain input from the public and leaders in local and regional climate preparedness.
71360.(a)An advisory council to the Climate Action Team is hereby established. The advisory council shall be comprised of 15 members from a range of disciplines within the purview of the Climate Action Team in order to provide scientific and technical support, as well as regional and local perspectives, to support the goals of the Climate Action Team, and to assist the members and working groups in their research and planning activities.
(b)Members of the advisory council shall be appointed based on their expertise in the intersection of climate change and areas that include, but need not be limited to, any of the following:
(1)Public health.
(2)Environmental quality.
(3)Environmental justice.
(4)Agriculture.
(5)Transportation and housing.
(6)Energy.
(7)Natural resources and water.
(8)Planning.
(9)Recycling and waste management.
(10)Local or regional government.
(c)Five members of the advisory council shall be appointed by the Climate Action Team, five members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the Assembly, and five members shall be appointed by the Senate Committee on Rules. All members shall be appointed to four-year terms with the possibility of reappointment.
(d)The advisory council shall meet with the Climate Action Team and related working groups and councils as needed but not less than three times a year.
(e)The members of the advisory council shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties.
The Legislature finds and declares:
(a)The state has been a leader in climate mitigation efforts. However, the states efforts alone will not prevent global climate change from occurring, as noted in the 2014 Safeguarding California Plan. Due to the inevitability of climate change impacts on the state, the state must invest in building resiliency and strengthening adaptation efforts at the state, regional, and local levels using the best-available science.
(b)Improved coordination of existing adaptation planning efforts and funding by the state, as well as increased implementation and support of adaptation programs, can directly protect the states infrastructure, communities, environmental quality, public health, natural resources, and economy from the unavoidable impacts of climate change for decades to come.
(c)The California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Division 25.5 (commencing with Section 38500) of the Health and Safety Code) directs the Climate Action Team established by the Governor to coordinate the overall climate policy as provided in Executive Order S-3-05 and directs all state agencies to consider and implement strategies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Given the Climate Action Teams experience in coordinating climate change research, vulnerability assessments, and resiliency and adaptation planning documents, it is well-suited to lead the collaborative efforts across state government to enhance the states planning, investment, and implementation of adaptation and resiliency guidelines and programs.
71352.(a)The Climate Action Team is hereby established in state government and shall consist of the following members:
(1)The Secretary for Environmental Protection, who shall serve as the chairperson of the Climate Action Team, who shall coordinate oversight of the efforts made to meet the greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets established pursuant to the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Division 25.5 (commencing with Section 38500) of the Health and Safety Code), and who shall coordinate the states adaptation efforts to increase Californias resiliency to climate change impacts.
(2)The Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency.
(3)The Chair of the State Air Resources Board.
(4)The Chair of the State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission.
(5)The President of the Public Utilities Commission.
(6)The Secretary of the Transportation Agency.
(7)The Secretary of Food and Agriculture.
(8)The Secretary of State and Consumer Services.
(9)The Secretary of California Health and Human Services.
(10)The Director of the Office of Planning and Research.
(11)The Secretary for Labor and Workforce Development.
(b)Upon the determination of the Secretary for Environmental Protection, ex officio representatives from other state departments and representatives from academic research institutions may be added to the Climate Action Team as necessary to provide assistance and expertise in particular subject areas.
(c)Multiagency staff working groups may be formed by the Climate Action Team to provide technical support for the work of the team in administrative domains, including, but not limited to, public health, environmental quality, agriculture, biodiversity and habitat, forestry, energy, land use, recycling and waste management, coastal and delta resources, regional and international policy development, state operations, water, and climate change research.
71354.The Climate Action Team, under the direction of the Secretary for Environmental Protection, shall coordinate the climate policy of the state to achieve the states climate change goals and all of the following:
(a)The identification of unavoidable climate change impacts to the states natural resources, environmental quality, public health, and infrastructure.
(b)The development and implementation of mitigation and adaptation plans to protect the public health, environmental quality, natural resources, and economy of the state.
(c)The coordination of climate change policies with state agencies and departments, other states, the federal government, and other nations to identify the most effective strategies and methods to reduce greenhouse gases, adapt to ongoing and future climate change, coordinate climate change research efforts, and facilitate the development of integrated and cost-effective regional, national, and international climate change programs.
(d)The coordination and efficient use of existing state resources, programs, and funds, as well the recommendation of additional policies and investment strategies, to achieve the requirements of this section.
(e)The identification and dissemination of information to local governments and regional bodies that will assist in meeting the requirements of this section.
|
Date
|
Status
|
|---|---|
| Sep 8, 2015 | In Senate. Concurrence in Assembly amendments pending. |
| Jul 1, 2015 | From committee with author's amendments. Read second time and amended. Re-referred to Com. on NAT. RES. |
| Jul 14, 2015 | From committee: Do pass and re-refer to Com. on APPR. (Ayes 8. Noes 1.) (July 13). Re-referred to Com. on APPR. |
| Aug 19, 2015 | August 19 set for first hearing. Placed on APPR. suspense file. |
| Aug 31, 2015 | From committee: Do pass as amended. (Ayes 12. Noes 5.) (August 27). |
| Sep 1, 2015 | Read second time and amended. Ordered to second reading. |
| Sep 2, 2015 | Read second time. Ordered to third reading. |
| Sep 4, 2015 | Ordered to third reading. |
| Sep 4, 2015 | Read third time and amended. |
| Sep 4, 2015 | Read third time and amended. (Ayes 53. Noes 27. Page 2899.) |
| Jun 15, 2015 | Referred to Com. on NAT. RES. |
| Sep 8, 2015 | Read third time. Passed. Ordered to the Senate. |
| Sep 8, 2015 | Read third time. Passed. (Ayes 56. Noes 23. Page 2964.) Ordered to the Senate. |
| Sep 10, 2015 | Assembly amendments concurred in. (Ayes 24. Noes 13.) Ordered to engrossing and enrolling. |
| Sep 10, 2015 | Assembly amendments concurred in. (Ayes 25. Noes 13. Page 2662.) Ordered to engrossing and enrolling. |
| Sep 10, 2015 | Assembly amendments concurred in. (Ayes 25. Noes 13.) Ordered to engrossing and enrolling. |
| Sep 11, 2015 | Enrolled and presented to the Governor at 10:45 p.m. |
| Oct 8, 2015 | Approved by the Governor. |
| Oct 8, 2015 | Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 606, Statutes of 2015. |
| May 8, 2015 | Set for hearing May 18. |
| Feb 19, 2015 | From printer. May be acted upon on or after March 21. |
| Feb 26, 2015 | Referred to Com. on E.Q. |
| Mar 17, 2015 | Set for hearing April 15. |
| Mar 26, 2015 | April 15 hearing postponed by committee. |
| Apr 10, 2015 | Set for hearing April 29. |
| Apr 13, 2015 | From committee with author's amendments. Read second time and amended. Re-referred to Com. on E.Q. |
| May 4, 2015 | From committee: Do pass as amended and re-refer to Com. on APPR. (Ayes 6. Noes 0. Page 857.) (April 29). |
| May 4, 2015 | From committee: Do pass as amended and re-refer to Com. on APPR. (Ayes 6. Noes 0.) (April 29). |
| May 5, 2015 | Read second time and amended. Re-referred to Com. on APPR. |
| Feb 18, 2015 | Introduced. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment. To print. |
| May 18, 2015 | May 18 hearing: Placed on APPR. suspense file. |
| May 23, 2015 | Set for hearing May 28. |
| Jun 1, 2015 | From committee: Do pass as amended. (Ayes 5. Noes 2. Page 1150.) (May 28). |
| Jun 1, 2015 | From committee: Do pass as amended. (Ayes 5. Noes 2.) (May 28). |
| Jun 2, 2015 | Read second time and amended. Ordered to third reading. |
| Jun 3, 2015 | Read third time. Passed. (Ayes 26. Noes 11. Page 1286.) Ordered to the Assembly. |
| Jun 3, 2015 | Read third time. Passed. (Ayes 26. Noes 11.) Ordered to the Assembly. |
| Jun 4, 2015 | In Assembly. Read first time. Held at Desk. |
|
Date
|
Description
|
Location
|
Votes
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 10, 2015 | Unfinished Business SB246 Wieckowski Concurrence | Senate Floor |
Passed |
|
| Sep 8, 2015 | SB 246 Wieckowski Senate Third Reading By GORDON | Assembly Floor |
Passed |
|
| Sep 4, 2015 | SB 246 Wieckowski Senate Third Reading By GORDON Amend By GORDON Set #1 | Assembly Floor |
Passed |
|
| Aug 27, 2015 | Do pass as amended. | Assembly Standing Committee on Appropriations |
Passed |
|
| Jul 13, 2015 | Do pass and be re-referred to the Committee on [Appropriations] | Assembly Standing Committee on Natural Resources |
Passed |
|
| Jun 3, 2015 | Senate 3rd Reading SB246 Wieckowski | Senate Floor |
Passed |
|
| May 28, 2015 | Do pass as amended | Senate Standing Committee on Appropriations |
Passed |
|
| May 18, 2015 | Placed on suspense file | Senate Standing Committee on Appropriations |
Passed |
|
| Apr 29, 2015 | Do pass as amended, but first amend, and re-refer to the Committee on [Appropriations] | Senate Standing Committee on Environmental Quality |
Passed |
This list shows positions taken on this bill by organizations on the date displayed, which is linked to the original source.
Positions by individuals are not included.
|
Organization
|
Position
|
Date
|
|---|---|---|
| Audubon California | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Autobahn California | * Indeterminate | Jul 13, 2015 |
| California Climate & Agricultural Network | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| California League Of Conservation Voters | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Capitol Region Climate Readiness Collaborative | ** Support | Jul 13, 2015 |
| Center for Climate Change and Health | ** Support | Jul 13, 2015 |
| Center for Climate Protection | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Climate Resolve | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Coalition For Clean Air | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Defenders Of Wildlife | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Elmwood Consulting | * Support | Jul 13, 2015 |
| Environment California | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Environmental Defense Fund | * Support | Apr 29, 2015 |
| Friends of the River | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Little Hoover Commission | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Local Government Commission | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Mosquito And Vector Control Association Of California | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Natural Resources Defense Council | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Sierra Business Council | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Sierra Club California | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Stop Waste | * Support | Apr 29, 2015 |
| The Nature Conservancy | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
| Treepeople | ** Support | Sep 8, 2015 |
SB 246
Page 9
|
Office of Senate Floor Analyses (916) 651-1520 Fax: (916) 327-4478 |
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Bill No: SB 246
Amended: 9/4/15
SENATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMITTEE: 6-0, 4/29/15
AYES: Wieckowski, Gaines, Hill, Jackson, Leno, Pavley
NO VOTE RECORDED: Bates
SENATE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE: 5-2, 5/28/15
AYES: Lara, Beall, Hill, Leyva, Mendoza
NOES: Bates, Nielsen
SENATE FLOOR: 26-11, 6/3/15
AYES: Allen, Beall, Block, De León, Gaines, Galgiani, Glazer, Hall, Hernandez, Hertzberg, Hill, Hueso, Jackson, Lara, Leno, Leyva, Liu, McGuire, Mendoza, Mitchell, Monning, Pan, Pavley, Roth, Wieckowski, Wolk
NOES: Anderson, Bates, Fuller, Huff, Moorlach, Morrell, Nguyen, Nielsen, Runner, Stone, Vidak
NO VOTE RECORDED: Berryhill, Cannella, Hancock
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 56-23, 9/8/15 - See last page for vote
SUBJECT: Climate change adaptation
DIGEST: This bill establishes the Integrated Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program (Program) through the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) to coordinate regional and local adaptation efforts with state climate adaptation strategies.
Assembly Amendments establish the Program within OPR to coordinate among local, regional, and state adaptation efforts and to aid the Office of Emergency Services (OES) in reviewing and updating the Adaptation Planning Guide (APG), including the goals and information specified. The amendments also establish an advisory council to support the Program goals, including the listed areas of expertise, establish a clearinghouse of climate adaptation resources, and remove the provision to regularly update the Safeguarding California Plan. Finally, the amendments exempt from the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act (OMA) Strategic Growth Council (SGC) meetings of council staff and member agency staff when they are meeting to discuss, but not take final action on, specified topics.
Existing law:
Establishes the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) as a special fund in the State Treasury; requires all moneys, except fines and penalties, collected pursuant to a market-based mechanism be deposited in the fund; and requires the Department of Finance, in consultation with the California Air Resources Board and any other relevant state agency, to develop, as specified, a three-year investment plan for the moneys deposited in the GGRF. (Government Code (GOV) §16428.8)
Requires that moneys deposited in the GGRF be used to facilitate the achievement of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions in the state and, where applicable and as feasible, lessen the impacts and effects of climate change on the state’s communities, economy, and environment, among other potential specified co-benefits. (Health and Safety Code (HSC) §39712)
Establishes the SGC, consisting of the Director of the OPR, the Secretary of the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA), the Secretary of the Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA), the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Secretary of Business, Consumer Services, and Housing, the Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), and three members of the public. (Public Resources Code (PRC) §75121)
Requires SGC to identify and review activities and funding programs of member agencies to improve air and water quality, meet the goals of AB 32 (Nunez/Pavley, Chapter 488, Statutes of 2006), encourage sustainable land use, and revitalize urban and community centers in a sustainable manner, in addition to helping local and regional bodies develop and plan sustainable communities. (PRC §75125)
Requires OPR to serve the Governor and Cabinet as staff for long-range planning and research, constituting the comprehensive state planning agency, with a focus on factors influencing the quality of the state’s environment. (GOV §65040)
This bill:
Declares the Legislature’s findings and that climate change impacts are ongoing and a threat to safety and security, as well as intent to have a cohesive and comprehensive adaptation response with OPR serving as the coordinating body for regional and local efforts with state strategies.
Requires the Director of OPR to establish the Program by January 1, 2017, to coordinate regional and local efforts with state climate adaptation strategies with, to the extent feasible, an emphasis on climate equity and strategies that benefit both GHG emissions reductions and adaptation efforts. Requires the Program to include:
Working with and coordinating local and regional adaptation efforts, including developing tools and guidance, promoting and coordinating state agency support, and informing state-led programs, planning processes, grant programs, and guidelines development through regular coordination among state agencies, the Climate Action Team (CAT), and SGC.
Assisting OES and other relevant agencies with coordinating regular reviews and updates to the APG.
Coordinating and maintaining the state’s clearinghouse for climate adaptation information.
Conducting regular meetings with the advisory council as established.
Requires within one year of an update to the Safeguarding California Plan, OES, in coordination with the CNRA, OPR, and relevant public and private entities to review and update, as necessary, the APG, and maintain an electronic copy on the state’s Climate Change Portal and OPR’s website.
Establishes an advisory council, with a range of experience, to support OPR by providing scientific and technical support and to facilitate coordination among state, regional, and local agency efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
Requires OPR to coordinate with appropriate state, regional, and local agencies to establish a clearinghouse of climate adaptation information, as specified, to guide decisionmakers when planning and implementing climate adaptation projects.
Exempts certain discussions by SGC staff and member agency staff from the OMA, including state agency coordination for state goals, preliminary policy recommendations and investment strategies, and the development of grant guidelines that are otherwise subject to public participation process requirements, as specified in Section 75125 of the PRC.
Background
Executive Orders Relating to State Agencies and Adaptation. Executive Order S-3-05 established GHG emission reduction targets, created the CAT, and directed the Secretary of CalEPA to coordinate efforts to meet the targets with the heads of other state agencies. The Order required the Secretary to report back to the Governor and Legislature biannually on progress toward meeting the GHG targets, GHG impacts to California, as well as mitigation and adaptation plans.
Executive Order S-13-08 directed state agencies to plan for climate impacts specifically from sea level rise. It further directed the CNRA, through the CAT, to coordinate the California Climate Adaptation Strategy by June 2009, noting “California must begin now to adapt and build our resiliency to coming climate changes through a thoughtful and sensible approach with local, regional, state and federal government using the best available science.”
Recent Executive Order B-30-15, in addition to setting GHG-related goals, directs the CNRA to update the Plan every three years and include vulnerabilities to climate change by sector and region, as specified, primary risks and priority actions regarding climate change impacts, and identification of lead agencies for each sector, which then report back to the CNRA on their actions taken. The Order further directs state agencies to take climate change into account in planning and investment decisions, guided by specified principles, and directs OPR to establish a technical, advisory group to help state agencies in their efforts.
California’s Adaptation Documents. The 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy is a statewide strategy that includes a summary of impacts from climate change, provides recommendations for adaptation strategies in seven sectors, and provides guidance for establishing adaptation and resiliency actions for the state. The 2014 Safeguarding California Plan is an update that augments adaptation strategies based on new climate science and risk management options.
The 2012 California APG, prepared and promoted by OPR, the CNRA, and OES, was designed to provide guidance and support for local governments and regional collaboratives in addressing the impacts of climate change. The guide consists of an overview document and three companion documents for use in defining local and regional impacts, understanding regional characteristics, and identifying adaptation strategies. The guide is meant to allow for flexibility in time, money, and effort available for adaptation across communities.
Comments
Purpose of Bill. According to the author, “Currently, the state lacks a coordinated, comprehensive approach for adapting to the impacts of climate change. While California has been a leader in climate mitigation efforts, the state alone cannot prevent global climate change and must prepare for the inevitable impacts through planning and implementing adaptation strategies in addition to continuing mitigation efforts.
“As noted in the ‘Governing California Through Climate Change’ report by the Little Hoover Commission (LHC) as well as multiple hearings on state and regional climate adaptation by the State Senate Environmental Quality Committee this year, there is a need for improved communication and coordination in climate adaptation efforts among levels of government in California, as well as for a centralized source of information and tools for planning and implementing adaptation efforts.
“SB
246 provides a framework for coordinating regional and local
adaptation planning with state policies and strategies through the
Program. The bill also ensures regular review of the APG and creates
a central hub for information to avoid duplication of adaptation
planning efforts, as well as improved communications among levels of
government through an advisory council to help ensure that adaptation
efforts are coordinated to provide resiliency to climate impacts for
communities across California.”
The Need for Improving Adaptation Efforts in California. According to the 2014 independent report by the LHC—a bipartisan state oversight agency—based on hearings, meetings, and interviews with climate change experts and stakeholders, there is a need for a more unified approach to adaptation from the state government. The report notes that most adaptation strategies at the state level are still advisory and have been developed without coordination with local governments and the private sector, which have largely been planning and implementing projects individually or with regional collaboratives.
Specific recommendations from the LHC’s report included:
That the Governor and Legislature create a new state entity or enhance the institutional capacity of an existing organization, which should include an independent science board; and
That the SGC expand its focus beyond reduction of carbon emissions to include a greater emphasis on adaptation.
Legislative Hearings on Climate Adaptation. This year, the Senate Environmental Quality Committee has conducted hearings on climate adaptation in California. The first hearing was focused mainly on state efforts to adapt to climate change impacts with testimony from the Secretaries of CalEPA, CNRA, CDFA, HHS, as well as the Deputy Directors of OPR and OES, and testimony from regional and local representatives and the LHC.
A second hearing was conducted in Oakland which focused on regional adaptation efforts and coordination in the Bay Area. Speakers included a member of the Nobel Prize-winning Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and representatives from the San Francisco Department of Public Health, the Climate Readiness Institute, the Bay Conservation and Development Commission, the Association of Bay Area Governments, the Counties of Marin, Sonoma, and Santa Clara, the City of Berkeley, and the Asian Pacific Environmental Network.
Testimony highlighted that there remains a lack of statutory direction that clearly articulates the roles at each level of government to ensure coordination and prioritization of adaptation throughout the state. Testimony also underscored the current and worsening impacts from climate change and the need for coordinating knowledge, tools, and funding so that adaptation is approached efficiently and holistically across government levels and regions.
Related/Prior Legislation
AB 1482 (Gordon, 2015) requires the CNRA to regularly update the Safeguarding California Plan, requires state agencies to maximize specified objectives across sector vulnerabilities, and requires the SGC review activities and funding to meet the priorities of the Plan. AB 1482 is on the Assembly Floor for concurrence.
SB 1217 (Leno, 2014) would have required the CNRA and SGC to prepare a climate risk assessment and strategy evaluating California’s vulnerability and risk for climate change impacts and to identify and prioritize climate resiliency projects. SB 1217 died in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
AB 2329 (Ruskin/Chesbro, 2010) would have enacted the CAT Act of 2010 to coordinate oversight of state agency efforts to meet GHG reduction targets, including development and implementation of mitigation and adaptation plans. AB 2329 failed on the Senate Floor.
SB 721 (Steinberg, 2009) was a reintroduction of SB 1760 (Perata, 2008), which was vetoed. SB 721 would also have required the CAT to biennially prepare and adopt a climate change impact mitigation and adaptation plan including specified information. SB 721 died in the Senate Appropriations Committee.
FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: Yes Local: No
According to the Assembly Appropriations Committee:
Increased annual General Fund (GF) costs of $200,000 for OPR to administer the Program.
One-time GF costs of $50,000 for data base development.
Ongoing annual costs GF costs of $50,000 for OPR to reimburse the Cal Tech Agency for webhosting.
Audubon California
California Climate & Agricultural Network
California League of Conservation Voters
Center for Climate Protection
Climate Resolve
Coalition for Clean Air
Defenders of Wildlife
Environment California
Friends of the River
Little Hoover Commission
Local Government Commission
Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California
Natural Resources Defense Council
Public Health Institute’s Center for Climate Change & Health
The Nature Conservancy
TreePeople
Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District
Sierra Business Council
Sierra Club California
None received
ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT: A coalition of environmental, conservation, business, and public health interests notes, “SB 246 provides a framework with which California governments can adapt to the impacts of climate change. Through optimizations and efficiencies in adaptation planning offered by SB 246, the state will help avert unnecessary and redundant costs resulting from the absence of proper coordination and adoption of best practices.”
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 56-23, 9/8/15
AYES: Achadjian, Alejo, Baker, Bloom, Bonilla, Bonta, Brown, Burke, Calderon, Campos, Chau, Chiu, Chu, Cooley, Cooper, Dababneh, Daly, Dodd, Eggman, Frazier, Cristina Garcia, Eduardo Garcia, Gatto, Gipson, Gomez, Gonzalez, Gordon, Hadley, Roger Hernández, Holden, Irwin, Jones-Sawyer, Lackey, Levine, Lopez, Low, Maienschein, McCarty, Medina, Mullin, Nazarian, O'Donnell, Perea, Quirk, Rendon, Ridley-Thomas, Rodriguez, Salas, Santiago, Mark Stone, Thurmond, Ting, Weber, Williams, Wood, Atkins
NOES: Travis Allen, Bigelow, Brough, Chang, Dahle, Beth Gaines, Gallagher, Gray, Grove, Harper, Jones, Kim, Linder, Mathis, Mayes, Melendez, Obernolte, Olsen, Patterson, Steinorth, Wagner, Waldron, Wilk
NO VOTE RECORDED: Chávez
Prepared by: Laurie Harris / E.Q. / (916) 651-4108
9/8/15 22:02:42
**** END ****
SB 246
Page 4
SENATE THIRD READING
SB 246
(Wieckowski)
As Amended September 4, 2015
Majority vote
SENATE VOTE: 26-11
Committee |
Votes |
Ayes |
Noes |
Natural Resources |
8-1 |
Williams, Dahle, Cristina Garcia, Hadley, McCarty, Rendon, Mark Stone, Wood |
Harper |
Appropriations |
12-5 |
Gomez, Bloom, Bonta, Calderon, Nazarian, Eggman, Eduardo Garcia, Holden, Quirk, Rendon, Weber, Wood |
Bigelow, Chang, Gallagher, Jones, Wagner |
SUMMARY: Establishes the Integrated Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program (Program) to be administered by the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) to work with and assist local and regional efforts for climate adaptation and resilience. Specifically, this bill:
Requires the Director of OPR to establish the Program by January 1, 2017, to coordinate regional and local efforts with state climate adaptation strategies to adapt to the impacts of climate change. To the extent feasible, requires an emphasis on climate equity, as specified. Requires the Program, working with and coordinating local and regional efforts for climate adaption and resilience, to do the following:
Promote and coordinate state agency support for local and regional efforts.
Inform state-led programs, including planning processes, grant programs and guidelines development to better reflect the goals, efforts, and challenges faced by local and regional entities pursuing adaptation, preparedness, and resilience.
Assist the Office of Emergency Services and other relevant agencies with coordinating regular updates to the Adaptation Planning Guide (Guide).
Coordinate and maintain the state’s clearinghouse for climate adaptation information.
Requires within one year of an update to the Safeguarding California Plan, the Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with the Natural Resources Agency, OPR, and relevant public and private entities to review and update, as necessary, the Guide.
Establishes an advisory council, with a range of experience, to support OPR by providing scientific and technical support and to facilitate coordination among state, regional, and local agency efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
Exempts certain discussions by Strategic Growth Council staff from the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act including the following:
State agency coordination to improve air and water quality, improve natural resource protection, increase the availability of affordable housing, improve transportation, revitalize urban and community centers in a sustainable manner or other priorities needed for sustainable community strategies.
Preliminary policy recommendations and investment strategies to the Governor, the Legislature, and appropriate state agencies to encourage development of sustainable communities.
Developing grant guidelines that are otherwise subject to public participation process requirements.
EXISTING LAW:
Requires, pursuant to the California Global Warming Solutions Act [AB 32 (Núñez), Chapter 488, Statutes of 2006], the Air Resources Board (ARB) to adopt a statewide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions limit equivalent to 1990 levels by 2020 and to adopt rules and regulations to achieve maximum technologically feasible and cost-effective GHG emission reductions.
Pursuant to Executive Order S-13-08 (Schwarzenegger), requires Natural Resources Agency (NRA), through the Climate Action Team, to coordinate with local, regional, state, federal, and private entities to develop, by 2009, a state Climate Adaptation Strategy. Requires the strategy to summarize the best known science on climate change impacts to California, assess California's vulnerability to the identified impacts, and outline solutions that can be implemented within and across state agencies to promote resiliency.
Requires OPR and NRA to periodically update the guidelines for the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions or the effects of GHG emissions as required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), including, but not limited to, effects associated with transportation or energy consumption, and to incorporate new information or criteria established by ARB pursuant to AB 32.
Pursuant to Executive Order B-30-15 (Brown), in addition to establishing a 40% GHG emission reduction goal by 2030, requires several actions on adaptation including:
Requires NRA to update every three years the state's climate adaptation strategy and ensure that its provisions are fully implemented. Requires the state's climate adaptation strategy to:
Identify vulnerabilities to climate change by sector and regions, including, at a minimum, the following sectors: water, energy, transportation, public health, agriculture, emergency services, forestry, biodiversity and habitat, and ocean and coastal resources;
Outline primary risks to residents, property, communities, and natural systems from these vulnerabilities, and identify priority actions needed to reduce these risks; and,
Identify a lead agency or group of agencies to lead adaptation efforts in each sector.
Requires each sector lead to prepare an implementation plan by September 2015 to outline the actions that will be taken as identified in state's climate adaptation strategy, and report back on those actions to the NRA.
Requires state agencies to take climate change into account in their planning and investment decisions, and employ full life-cycle cost accounting to evaluate and compare infrastructure investments and alternatives.
Requires state agencies' planning and investment to be guided by the principles of climate preparedness, flexibility and adaptive approaches for uncertain climate impacts, protective of vulnerable populations, and prioritization of natural infrastructure solutions.
Requires the state's Five-Year Infrastructure Plan to take current and future climate change impacts into account in all infrastructure projects.
Requires OPR to establish a technical, advisory group to help state agencies incorporate climate change impacts into planning and investment decisions.
Requires the state to continue its rigorous climate change research program focused on understanding the impacts of climate change and how best to prepare and adapt to such impacts.
FISCAL EFFECT: According to the Assembly Appropriations Committee:
Increased annual General Fund (GF) costs of $200,000 for OPR to administer the Program.
One-time GF costs of $50,000 for data base development.
Ongoing annual costs GF costs of $50,000 for OPR to reimburse the Cal Tech Agency for web hosting.
COMMENTS: According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, "adaptation is the adjustments that society or ecosystems make to limit negative effects of climate change. It can also include taking advantage of opportunities that a changing climate provides." In 2009, the NRA described adaptation as a relatively new concept in California policy and stated the term means, "efforts that respond to the impacts of climate change – adjustments in natural or human systems to actual or expected climate changes to minimize harm or take advantage of beneficial opportunities."
California's adaptation efforts can be traced back to 2008, when Governor Schwarzenegger ordered the NRA, through the Climate Action Team (CAT), to coordinate with local, regional, state, federal, public and private entities to develop, by 2009, the state's Climate Adaptation Strategy. The Governor Schwarzenegger's Executive Order required the strategy to summarize the best known science on climate change impacts for California, assess California's vulnerability to the identified impacts, and outline solutions that can be implemented within and across state agencies to promote resiliency. As a result, NRA drafted The 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy. The state's Climate Adaptation Strategy represents the work of seven sector-specific working groups led by 12 state agencies, boards, and commissions, and numerous stakeholders. The state's Climate Adaptation Strategy proposes a comprehensive set of recommendations designed to inform and guide California decision makers as they begin to develop policies that will protect the state, its residents, and its resources from a range of climate change impacts. In July of 2014, NRA released an update to the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy, Safeguarding California: Reducing Climate Risk.
Analysis Prepared by: Michael Jarred / NAT. RES. / (916) 319-2092 FN: 0002190
SB 246
Page 3
SENATE THIRD READING
SB 246
(Wieckowski)
As Amended September 1, 2015
Majority vote
SENATE VOTE: 26-11
Committee |
Votes |
Ayes |
Noes |
Natural Resources |
8-1 |
Williams, Dahle, Cristina Garcia, Hadley, McCarty, Rendon, Mark Stone, Wood |
Harper |
Appropriations |
12-5 |
Gomez, Bloom, Bonta, Calderon, Nazarian, Eggman, Eduardo Garcia, Holden, Quirk, Rendon, Weber, Wood |
Bigelow, Chang, Gallagher, Jones, Wagner |
SUMMARY: Establishes the Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program (Program) to be administered by the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) to work with and assist local and regional efforts for climate adaptation and resilience. Specifically, this bill:
Requires the Director of OPR to establish the Program by January 1, 2017, to coordinate state, regional and local efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change. To the extent feasible, requires an emphasis on climate equity, as specified. Requires the Program, working with and coordinating local and regional efforts for climate adaption and resilience, to do the following:
Promote and coordinate state agency support for local and regional efforts.
Ensure that state planning, guidance, and guidelines reflect the efforts and challenges faced by local and regional entities pursuing adaptation and resilience.
Assist the Office of Emergency Services and other relevant agencies with coordinating regular updates to the Adaptation Planning Guide (Guide).
Coordinate and maintain the state’s clearinghouse for climate adaptation information.
Requires within one year of an update to the Safeguarding California Plan, the Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with the Natural Resources Agency to review and update, as necessary, the Guide.
Establishes an advisory council, with a range of experience, to support OPR by providing scientific and technical support and to facilitate coordination among state, regional, and local agency efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
EXISTING LAW:
Requires, pursuant to the California Global Warming Solutions Act [AB 32 (Núñez), Chapter 488, Statutes of 2006], the Air Resources Board (ARB) to adopt a statewide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions limit equivalent to 1990 levels by 2020 and to adopt rules and regulations to achieve maximum technologically feasible and cost-effective GHG emission reductions.
Pursuant to Executive Order S-13-08 (Schwarzenegger), requires Natural Resources Agency (NRA), through the Climate Action Team, to coordinate with local, regional, state, federal, and private entities to develop, by 2009, a state Climate Adaptation Strategy. Requires the strategy to summarize the best known science on climate change impacts to California, assess California's vulnerability to the identified impacts, and outline solutions that can be implemented within and across state agencies to promote resiliency.
Requires OPR and NRA to periodically update the guidelines for the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions or the effects of GHG emissions as required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), including, but not limited to, effects associated with transportation or energy consumption, and to incorporate new information or criteria established by ARB pursuant to AB 32.
Pursuant to Executive Order B-30-15 (Brown), in addition to establishing a 40% GHG emission reduction goal by 2030, requires several actions on adaptation including:
Requires NRA to update every three years the state's climate adaptation strategy and ensure that its provisions are fully implemented. Requires the state's climate adaptation strategy to:
Identify vulnerabilities to climate change by sector and regions, including, at a minimum, the following sectors: water, energy, transportation, public health, agriculture, emergency services, forestry, biodiversity and habitat, and ocean and coastal resources;
Outline primary risks to residents, property, communities, and natural systems from these vulnerabilities, and identify priority actions needed to reduce these risks; and,
Identify a lead agency or group of agencies to lead adaptation efforts in each sector.
Requires each sector lead to prepare an implementation plan by September 2015 to outline the actions that will be taken as identified in state's climate adaptation strategy, and report back on those actions to the NRA.
Requires state agencies to take climate change into account in their planning and investment decisions, and employ full life-cycle cost accounting to evaluate and compare infrastructure investments and alternatives.
Requires state agencies' planning and investment to be guided by the principles of climate preparedness, flexibility and adaptive approaches for uncertain climate impacts, protective of vulnerable populations, and prioritization of natural infrastructure solutions.
Requires the state's Five-Year Infrastructure Plan to take current and future climate change impacts into account in all infrastructure projects.
Requires OPR to establish a technical, advisory group to help state agencies incorporate climate change impacts into planning and investment decisions.
Requires the state to continue its rigorous climate change research program focused on understanding the impacts of climate change and how best to prepare and adapt to such impacts.
FISCAL EFFECT: According to the Assembly Appropriations Committee:
Increased annual General Fund (GF) costs of $200,000 for OPR to administer the Program.
One-time GF costs of $50,000 for data base development.
Ongoing annual costs GF costs of $50,000 for OPR to reimburse the Cal Tech Agency for webhosting.
COMMENTS: According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, "adaptation is the adjustments that society or ecosystems make to limit negative effects of climate change. It can also include taking advantage of opportunities that a changing climate provides." In 2009, the NRA described adaptation as a relatively new concept in California policy and stated the term means, "efforts that respond to the impacts of climate change – adjustments in natural or human systems to actual or expected climate changes to minimize harm or take advantage of beneficial opportunities."
California's adaptation efforts can be traced back to 2008, when Governor Schwarzenegger ordered the NRA, through the Climate Action Team (CAT), to coordinate with local, regional, state, federal, public and private entities to develop, by 2009, the state's Climate Adaptation Strategy. The Governor Schwarzenegger's Executive Order required the strategy to summarize the best known science on climate change impacts for California, assess California's vulnerability to the identified impacts, and outline solutions that can be implemented within and across state agencies to promote resiliency. As a result, NRA drafted The 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy. The state's Climate Adaptation Strategy represents the work of seven sector-specific working groups led by 12 state agencies, boards, and commissions, and numerous stakeholders. The state's Climate Adaptation Strategy proposes a comprehensive set of recommendations designed to inform and guide California decision makers as they begin to develop policies that will protect the state, its residents, and its resources from a range of climate change impacts. In July of 2014, NRA released an update to the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy Safeguarding California: Reducing Climate Risk.
Analysis Prepared by: Michael Jarred / NAT. RES. / (916) 319-2092 FN: 0001936
Date of Hearing: August 19, 2015
ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
Jimmy Gomez, Chair
SB 246
(Wieckowski) – As Amended July 1, 2015
Policy Committee: |
Natural Resources |
Vote: |
8 - 1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Urgency: No State Mandated Local Program: No Reimbursable: No
SUMMARY:
This bill establishes the Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program (Program) to be administered by the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) to coordinate climate adaptation efforts. This bill also revises state requirements for updating planning guidance and adaptation strategies. Specifically, this bill:
Requires the Director of OPR to establish the Program by January 1, 2017, to coordinate state, regional and local agency efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change. To the extent feasible, requires an emphasis on climate equity as specified. Requires the Program to include:
Assistance to state agencies in coordinating, planning and preparation of regular updates to the state’s Climate Adaptation Strategy.
Assistance to relevant state agencies and public and private entities to create regular updates to the adaptation planning guide.
Coordination and maintenance of the state’s clearinghouse for climate adaptation information.
Requires Cal EPA, the Natural Resources Agency (NRA) and OPR to update the state's Climate Adaptation Strategy (Safeguarding California: Reducing Climate Risk, 2014) by January 1, 2019, and every three years thereafter, as specified.
Requires OPR to update the adaptation planning guide by January 1, 2018, and every three years thereafter, as specified.
Establishes a 15 member advisory council to support OPR, including five members appointed by the Speaker of the Assembly and five members appointed by the Senate Rules Committee.
Requires OPR to establish a clearinghouse for climate adaptation information as specified.
FISCAL
EFFECT:
Increased annual GF costs of $200,000 for OPR to administer the Program.
One-time GF costs of $50,000 for data base development.
Ongoing annual costs GF costs of $50,000 for OPR to reimburse the Cal Tech Agency for webhosting.
Absorbable costs for CalEPA and NRA to participate in the adaptation strategy update.
COMMENTS:
Rationale. In 2014, the NRA adopted the Safeguarding California Plan (an update to the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy), which begins to lay out a statewide plan for climate adaptation. However, there is no mechanism for enforcing this plan or ensuring that state agency or department actions are consistent with the plan.
The Strategic Growth Council (SGC) is tasked with implementing the Sustainable Communities Strategy and other planning programs to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gases. However SCG does not have the authority to plan for climate adaptation.
According to the author, the purpose of this bill is to provide a coordinated comprehensive approach for adapting to the impacts of climate change.
Background. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, adaptation is the adjustments that society or ecosystems make to limit negative effects of climate change. It can also include taking advantage of opportunities that a changing climate provides.
In 2009, the NRA described adaptation as a relatively new concept in California policy, and stated the term means efforts that respond to the impacts of climate change – adjustments in natural or human systems to actual or expected climate changes to minimize harm or take advantage of beneficial opportunities. Climate risks in California include sea level rise, changes in precipitation that increase the risk of both drought and flooding, and increases in temperatures that can affect air quality and habitat.
Governor's Executive Order. The Governor's executive order issued on April 29, 2015, requires NRA to update the state's climate adaptation strategy (The Safeguarding California plan) every three years and ensure that its provisions are fully implemented. The Safeguarding California plan will:
Identify vulnerabilities to climate change by sector and regions, including, at a minimum, the following sectors: water, energy, transportation, public health, agriculture, emergency services, forestry, biodiversity and habitat, and ocean and coastal resources,
Outline primary risks to residents, property, communities and natural systems from these vulnerabilities, and identify priority actions needed to reduce these risks.
Identify a lead agency or group of agencies to lead adaptation efforts in each sector.
The executive order further requires each sector to prepare an implementation plan by September 2015 to outline the actions that will be taken as identified in Safeguarding California, and report back to NRA by June 2016 on actions taken. This bill is consistent with this executive order.
Related Legislation. AB 1482 (Gordon) codifies a portion of the Governor's executive order and requires the NRA to assess and coordinate across all state departments and agencies to identify opportunities to adapt to the impacts of climate change. This bill is pending in the Senate Appropriations Committee.
This bill has a different, but overlapping approach to developing the state's adaptation policy. The author may wish to work with Assemblymember Gordon to reconcile the differences in their respective bills and develop a comprehensive approach.
Analysis Prepared by: Jennifer Galehouse / APPR. / (916) 319-2081
SB 246
Page 6
Date of Hearing: July 13, 2015
ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES
Das Williams, Chair
SB 246
(Wieckowski) – As Amended July 1, 2015
SENATE VOTE: 26-11
SUBJECT: Climate change adaptation.
SUMMARY: Establishes the Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program (Program) to be administered by the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) to coordinate state, regional, and local agency efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change. Alters the state agencies with the responsibility for updating the state's climate adaptation strategy and adaptation planning guide (Guide).
EXISTING LAW:
Establishes OPR as the comprehensive state planning agency and requires OPR to assist state, regional, and local agencies in a variety of research and planning efforts.
Requires, pursuant to the California Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32), the Air Resources Board (ARB) to adopt a statewide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions limit equivalent to 1990 levels by 2020 and to adopt rules and regulations to achieve maximum technologically feasible and cost-effective GHG emission reductions.
Pursuant to Executive Order S-13-08 (Schwarzenegger), requires NRA, through the Climate Action Team, to coordinate with local, regional, state, federal, and private entities to develop, by 2009, a state Climate Adaptation Strategy. Requires the strategy to summarize the best known science on climate change impacts to California, assess California's vulnerability to the identified impacts, and outline solutions that can be implemented within and across state agencies to promote resiliency.
Requires OPR and NRA to periodically update the guidelines for the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions or the effects of GHG emissions as required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), including, but not limited to, effects associated with transportation or energy consumption, and to incorporate new information or criteria established by ARB pursuant to AB 32.
Pursuant to Executive Order B-30-15 (Brown), in addition to establishing a 40% GHG emission reduction goal by 2030, requires several actions on adaptation including:
Requires NRA to update every three years the state's climate adaptation strategy and ensure that its provisions are fully implemented. Requires the state's climate adaptation strategy to:
Identify vulnerabilities to climate change by sector and regions, including, at a minimum, the following sectors: water, energy, transportation, public health, agriculture, emergency services, forestry, biodiversity and habitat, and ocean and coastal resources;
Outline primary risks to residents, property, communities, and natural systems from these vulnerabilities, and identify priority actions needed to reduce these risks; and,
Identify a lead agency or group of agencies to lead adaptation efforts in each sector.
Requires each sector lead to prepare an implementation plan by September 2015 to outline the actions that will be taken as identified in state's climate adaptation strategy, and report back on those actions to the NRA.
Requires state agencies to take climate change into account in their planning and investment decisions, and employ full life-cycle cost accounting to evaluate and compare infrastructure investments and alternatives.
Requires state agencies' planning and investment to be guided by the principles of climate preparedness, flexibility and adaptive approaches for uncertain climate impacts, protective of vulnerable populations, and prioritization of natural infrastructure solutions.
Requires the state's Five-Year Infrastructure Plan to take current and future climate change impacts into account in all infrastructure projects.
Requires OPR to establish a technical, advisory group to help state agencies incorporate climate change impacts into planning and investment decisions.
Requires the state to continue its rigorous climate change research program focused on understanding the impacts of climate change and how best to prepare and adapt to such impacts.
THIS
BILL:
Establishes, no later than January 1, 2017, the Program to be administered by OPR to coordinate state, regional, and local agency efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change. Requires the Program to include:
Assistance to state agencies in coordinating, planning and preparation of regular updates to the state’s Climate Adaptation Strategy;
Assistance to relevant state agencies and public and private entities to create regular updates to the Guide; and,
Coordination and maintenance of the state’s clearinghouse for climate adaptation information.
Requires, no later than January 1, 2019, and every three years thereafter, the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA), NRA, and OPR to update the state’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, for which the first update was titled Safeguarding California: Reducing Climate Risk, to incorporate advances in climate science and risk management options regarding regional and statewide climate change impacts and vulnerabilities and recommended adaptation strategies.
Requires, no later than January 1, 2018, and every three years thereafter, OPR to update the Guide to provide tools and guidance to regional and local governments and agencies in creating and implementing climate adaptation and community resiliency plans and projects. Requires the Guide updates to include, at a minimum, all of the following:
Information concerning funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects;
Regionally prioritized best-practice adaptation projects that, where appropriate, integrate efforts to reduce GHG emissions across the state;
Recommended metrics and indicators to track the progress and success of adaptation efforts locally, regionally, and statewide;
Adaptation planning templates for use by local governments and regional collaboratives; and,
Guidelines for coordinating adaptation activities among state and local governments and regional collaboratives.
Establishes an advisory council to OPR. Specifies the advisory council will be comprised of 15 members from a range of disciplines in order to provide scientific and technical support, as well as regional and local perspectives, to support OPR adaptation work. Specifies five members will be appointed the Governor, five members will be appointed by the Speaker of the Assembly, and five members will be appointed by the Senate Committee on Rules.
Requires OPR to establish a clearinghouse for climate adaptation information for use by state, regional, and local entities. Requires the clearinghouse to include a collection of the best-available science, projections, models, and vulnerability assessments of climate change impacts throughout the state at statewide, regional, and local levels for both near-term and longer term timescales, including year 2050 and year 2100 projections. Requires the clearinghouse to include tools and a library to provide the best available data and best adaptation practices.
FISCAL EFFECT: Unknown
COMMENTS:
Adaptation. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, “adaptation is the adjustments that society or ecosystems make to limit negative effects of climate change. It can also include taking advantage of opportunities that a changing climate provides.” In 2009, the NRA described adaptation as a relatively new concept in California policy and stated the term means, “efforts that respond to the impacts of climate change – adjustments in natural or human systems to actual or expected climate changes to minimize harm or take advantage of beneficial opportunities.”
California’s adaptation efforts can be traced back to 2008, when Governor Schwarzenegger ordered the NRA, through the Climate Action Team (CAT), to coordinate with local, regional, state, federal, public and private entities to develop, by 2009, the state’s Climate Adaptation Strategy. The Governor Schwarzenegger’s Executive Order required the strategy to summarize the best known science on climate change impacts for California, assess California's vulnerability to the identified impacts, and outline solutions that can be implemented within and across state agencies to promote resiliency. As a result, NRA drafted The 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy. The state’s Climate Adaptation Strategy represents the work of seven sector-specific working groups led by 12 state agencies, boards, and commissions, and numerous stakeholders. The state’s Climate Adaptation Strategy proposes a comprehensive set of recommendations designed to inform and guide California decision makers as they begin to develop policies that will protect the state, its residents, and its resources from a range of climate change impacts. In July of 2014, NRA released an update to the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy Safeguarding California: Reducing Climate Risk.
Climate risks in California include sea level rise, changes in precipitation that increase the risk of both drought and flooding, and increases in temperatures that can affect air quality and habitat. California is responding to these risks through various efforts including the recently passed Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014 (Proposition 1), which has several pots of funding for responding to drought conditions or flooding brought by climate change and dealing with sea level rise. Of the over $7 billion allocated in the bond, $3.6 billion could be spent on projects that deal in some way with adaptation.
In addition, the Coastal Commission (Commission) has been working with coastal zone local governments to update their local coastal programs to address shoreline hazards and sea level rise. The Commission has also released a Draft Sea-Level Rise Policy Guidance document that provides an overview of best available science on sea-level rise for California and recommended steps for addressing sea-level rise in Commission planning and regulatory actions. This will help coastal local governments to make planning decisions that will take into account sea level rise and identify infrastructure and property that is at risk.
State Efforts. On February 25, 2015, The Senate Environmental Quality Committee held an informational hearing entitled, “California’s Adaptation Efforts to Climate Change Impacts of Environmental Quality and Public Health.” In the hearing, four different cabinet Secretaries presented how climate impacts affect the work at their agencies. In addition, regional collaboratives and a representative from local governments testified. At a subsequent hearing in the Bay Area on May 29, 2015 the committee heard about regional efforts.
During the hearings, regional and local leaders stressed the importance of the following:
Sustainable funding;
Actionable, prioritized implementation standards for adaptation projects;
More guidance from the state on climate adaptation priorities among state, regional, and local bodies;
Improved communication among levels of government and more opportunities for input at the state level from regions and locals; and,
A centralization/hub of resources and data for use by all stakeholders to avoid duplication of efforts by regional and local entities.
According to the author, SB 246 attempts to capture that feedback and provide a coordinated, comprehensive approach for adapting to the impacts of climate change. However, the approach SB 246 takes differs from the Governor’s executive order by moving some responsibilities from NRA to OPR and by spreading the responsibilities to other agencies such as for the update for California Climate Adaptation Strategy. According to the author’s office:
The NRA has successfully worked with multiple agencies and coordination bodies, including the CAT and Strategic Growth Council (SGC), to coordinate the Safeguarding California Plan. While there has been extensive research and guidance preparation, there have been concerns that much still remains to be done in aligning and implementing adaptation recommendations across the state. As well, regional and local stakeholders have expressed concern that the state agencies and document preparation processes are very insular. OPR is a noted exception, often engaged by local entities and established in statute as the comprehensive state planning agency that shall engage in the formulation, evaluation, and updating of long-range goals, assisting state, regional, and local agencies in a variety of research and planning efforts. By specifying that OPR help coordinate the Safeguarding Plan and tasking the office with more responsibility for coordinating adaptation activities that connect state, regional, and local efforts, SB 246 works to address issues beyond state agency coordination to establish a comprehensive adaptation planning effort across levels of government.
It is important to consider that adapting to changing climate may go beyond the scope of NRA’s expertise when the impacts from climate change fall out of the jurisdiction of the Agency or when they manifest on the local or regional level. The most common impacts that come to mind when thinking of climate change are drought, flooding, fires, and sea level rise, which are in NRA’s scope of expertise. However, impacts to air quality, water quality, public health, and agriculture are not. OPR is part of the Governor’s Office that oversees all the different state government agencies, and through its role in CEQA, deals with local governments on a constant basis. At this committee’s April 27 hearing, AB 1482 was heard. AB 1482 has a different, but overlapping approach to developing the state’s adaptation policy. The authors of these measures have agreed to attempt to reconcile their legislation. A path forward could be to recognize the importance of adaptation to NRA while enhancing the role of OPR to assist overseeing the state’s role and provide guidance and assistance to local and regional entities. In addition, the SGC could be utilized to provide assistance and funding to improve adaptation efforts.
Safeguarding California Plan. Safeguarding California Plan is the 343-page update to The 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy. The update states it, “presents a call to action to address climate risks that threaten the state’s people, economy, infrastructure and natural resources. Climate impacts are already manifesting in California, and strong state leadership is critical in order to safeguard our communities.” However, it is unclear what risks California is most vulnerable to and which risks should be prioritized because they pose the greatest threat to the state. This bill, AB 1482, and the Governor’s executive order all call for updates to state’s Climate Adaptation Strategy every three years. This bill requires CalEPA , OPR and NRA to be all be the lead on this update. AB 1482 and the executive order both place the responsibility with NRA. It may be appropriate to direct whomever is leading the update to prioritize what risks and vulnerabilities the state is least prepared for and poses the greatest threat to help focus attention on those areas.
Related legislation.
AB 1482 (Gordon) codifies a portion of Governor Brown’s Executive Order. The bill also requires the NRA to assess and coordinate across all state departments and agencies identify opportunities that increase the ability for state and local infrastructure, people, and habitat, and wildlife to adapt to the impacts of climate change. This bill is awaiting hearing in the Senate Appropriations Committee.
SB 317 (De Leon) enacts the Safe Neighborhood Parks, Rivers, and Coastal Protection Bond Act of 2016, which among other things would allocate $100 million to the SGC for grants to develop or implement a regional or local greenprint or climate adaptation plan, or add climate adaption to a general plan, and for the protection of agricultural and open-space resources that support adopted sustainable communities strategies. This bill is on third reading on the Senate Floor.
SB 379 (Jackson) requires cities and counties to review and update their general plans’ safety elements to address risks posed by climate change. This bill is awaiting hearing in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
REGISTERED
SUPPORT / OPPOSITION:
Support
Audubon California
California Climate & Agricultural Network
California League of Conservation Voters
Capitol Region Climate Readiness Collaborative
Center for Climate Change and Health
Center for Climate Protection
Climate Resolve
Coalition for Clean Air
Defenders of Wildlife
Environment California
Friends of the River
Little Hoover Commission
Local Government Commission
Mosquito and Vector
Control Association of California
Sacramento Metropolitan Air
Quality Management District
Sierra Business Council
Sierra Club California
The Nature Conservancy
TreePeople
Opposition
None on file
Analysis Prepared by: Michael Jarred / NAT. RES. / (916) 319-2092
SB 246
Page 8
|
Office of Senate Floor Analyses (916) 651-1520 Fax: (916) 327-4478 |
THIRD READING
Bill No: SB 246
Amended: 6/2/15
SENATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMITTEE: 6-0, 4/29/15
AYES: Wieckowski, Gaines, Hill, Jackson, Leno, Pavley
NO VOTE RECORDED: Bates
SENATE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE: 5-2, 5/28/15
AYES: Lara, Beall, Hill, Leyva, Mendoza
NOES: Bates, Nielsen
SUBJECT: Climate Change Adaptation
DIGEST: This bill requires the California Natural Resources Agency (NRA) to coordinate an update to the state’s Climate Adaptation Strategy (CAS) and the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR) to coordinate an update to the Adaptation Planning Guide, as specified. This bill also establishes an advisory council to the OPR.
Existing law:
Under the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, states that it is the intent of the Legislature that the Climate Action Team (CAT), established by the Governor to coordinate the efforts set forth under Executive Order S-3-05 and led by the Secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency with coordination from the Secretary of the NRA and heads of five additional state agencies, continue its role in coordinating the overall climate policy of the state. (Health and Safety Code §38501)
Requires the OPR to serve the Governor and Cabinet as staff for long-range planning and research, constituting the comprehensive state planning agency, with a focus on factors influencing the quality of the state’s environment. (GOV §65040)
This bill:
Declares the Legislature’s intent to integrate adaptation strategies into state policies, projects, and permitting processes.
Requires the NRA, in coordination with relevant public and private entities, to coordinate an update to the state’s CAS, for which the first update was titled “Safeguarding California,” no later than January 1, 2019, to incorporate advances in climate science and risk management options.
Requires the OPR, in coordination with relevant public and private entities, to coordinate an update to the state’s Adaptation Planning Guide (APG) no later than January 1, 2017, to provide tools and guidance to regional and local governments and agencies in creating and implementing adaptation and resiliency plans and projects, including, at a minimum:
Funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects;
Regionally prioritized best-practice adaptation projects that integrate greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction efforts where appropriate;
Recommended metrics and indicators to track progress of adaptation efforts locally, regionally, and statewide;
Adaptation planning templates for use locally and regionally; and
Guidelines for coordinating adaptation activities among state, regional, and local bodies.
As part of updating the APG, requires the OPR and advisory council to hold public meetings and workshops at least annually in the northern, southern, and central regions of the state.
Creates an advisory council to the OPR to provide scientific and technical support, as well as regional and local perspectives. Requires the council to be comprised of 15 members, five each appointed by the Governor, Speaker of the Assembly, and Senate Rules Committee, based on their expertise in the intersection of climate change and a range of areas, as specified.
Background
Executive Orders Relating to State Agencies and Adaptation. Executive Order S-3-05 established GHG emission reduction targets, created the CAT, and directed the Secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) to coordinate efforts to meet the targets with the heads of other state agencies. The order required the Secretary to report back to the Governor and Legislature biannually on progress toward meeting the GHG targets, GHG impacts to California, as well as mitigation and adaptation plans.
Executive Order S-13-08 directed state agencies to plan for climate impacts specifically from sea level rise. It further directed the NRA, through the CAT, to coordinate the California Climate Adaptation Strategy by June 2009, noting “California must begin now to adapt and build our resiliency to coming climate changes through a thoughtful and sensible approach with local, regional, state and federal government using the best available science.”
Overview of State Agency Coordination Today. Previous legislative efforts have tried to place the task of coordinating the state’s adaptation efforts with both the CAT and the Strategic Growth Council (SGC), two cross-agency bodies dealing with climate change issues.
The SGC was established by SB 732 (Steinberg, Chapter 729, Statutes of 2008). SGC is comprised of 10 members representing six agencies, OPR, and three public members and was created to focus attention on climate change and coordinated sustainable growth. SGC is also responsible for awarding sustainable community grants and is tasked with identifying and reviewing activities and funding programs of member agencies that may be coordinated to improve air and water quality, increase the availability of affordable housing, improve transportation, meet the goals of AB 32, encourage sustainable land use, and revitalize urban and community centers in a sustainable manner, in addition to helping local and regional bodies develop and plan sustainable communities.
The CAT is comprised of state agency secretaries and the heads of agency, boards, and departments, chaired by the Secretary of the CalEPA. The team works to coordinate statewide efforts to implement GHG emission reduction programs, as well as the state’s CAS.
In addition to the CAT members, there are 10 working groups, including the following areas: agriculture, biodiversity, coastal and ocean climate adaptation team, interagency forestry, intergovernmental, land use and infrastructure, research, public health, state government, and water energy. These working groups support the activities of the numerous state agencies working on climate change, through such activities as conducting research, producing informational documents, organizing workshops, and conducting outreach.
California’s Climate Change Documents. Beginning in 2006, there have been three climate change assessment documents prepared by state agencies to better understand risks of climate change to California. Currently, a fourth assessment is being prepared, intended to provide information to support adaptation decisions. This latest assessment is the first interagency effort to implement a large part of the Climate Change Research Plan (Research Plan) and will serve as a request for proposals for ongoing research concerning climate change.
The 2015 Climate Change Research Plan was prepared by the CAT, involving almost 50 authors from 16 agencies. The Research Plan outlines statewide research priorities for climate change. Some of these major areas of research include:
Improved methods and indicators for monitoring climate change;
Improved methods to “downscale” global climate projections to support risk assessments and adaptation planning;
Refined GHG emissions accounting methods and reduction pathways;
Incorporation of new climate science into a risk assessment framework, and identification of robust adaptation strategies that would fare well under multiple potential climate scenarios from local to statewide levels; and
Synergies between mitigation and adaptation efforts.
California’s Adaptation Documents. The 2009 California CAS is a statewide strategy that includes a summary of impacts from climate change and provides recommendations for adaptation strategies in seven sectors, including public health, water, agriculture, transportation and energy, forestry, biodiversity and habitat, and oceans and coastal resources. Overall, it provides guidance for establishing adaptation and resiliency actions for the state. The 2014 Safeguarding California Plan is an update to the strategy that augments climate adaptation strategies based on new climate science and risk management options.
The 2012 California Adaptation Planning Guide, prepared and promoted by OPR, the NRA, and the Office of Emergency Services, was designed to provide guidance and support for local governments and regional collaboratives in addressing the impacts of climate change. The guide consists of an overview document and three companion documents for use as needed in defining local and regional impacts, understanding regional characteristics, and identifying adaptation strategies. The guide is meant to allow for flexibility across communities in terms of the time, money, and effort available for adaptation.
Comments
Purpose of Bill. According to the author, “Currently, the state lacks a coordinated, comprehensive approach for adapting to the impacts of climate change. While California has been a leader in climate mitigation efforts, the state alone cannot prevent global climate change and must prepare for the inevitable impacts through planning and implementing adaptation strategies in addition to continuing mitigation efforts.
“Regional collaboratives and local governments have been at the forefront of efforts to plan and implement adaptation projects, though many lack the scientific expertise, knowledge on adaptation best-practices, funding opportunities, and metrics to evaluate their progress with adaptation. Given their efforts and needs, improved coordination and communication with state agencies overseeing the state’s climate policy is important for developing comprehensive, statewide adaptation efforts.
“SB
246 tasks state entities with coordinating updates to the state’s
Climate Adaptation Strategy and Adaptation Planning Guide as
specified. These resources, in combination with opportunities for
public meetings, and the creation of an advisory council to provide
scientific or technical support, and regional and local perspectives,
will help ensure that state, regional, and local adaptation efforts
are coordinated to provide resiliency to climate impacts for
communities across California.”
The Need for Improving Adaptation Efforts in California. According to the 2014 independent report “Governing California Through Climate Change” by the Little Hoover Commission (LHC)—a bipartisan state oversight agency—based on hearings, meetings, and interviews with climate change experts and stakeholders throughout the state, there is a need for a more unified approach to adaptation from the state government. The report notes the thorough and proactive efforts of the state to understand the challenges and vulnerabilities from climate change. However, the report also notes that most adaptation strategies at the state level are still advisory and have been developed without coordination with local governments and the private sector, which have largely been planning and implementing projects individually or with regional collaboratives.
Specific recommendations from the LHC’s report included:
That the Governor and Legislature create a new state entity or enhance the institutional capacity of an existing organization, which should include an independent science board, to help California’s multitude of governments prepare for and react to climate change; and
That the California SGC expand its focus beyond reduction of carbon emissions to include a greater emphasis on adaptation to the impacts of climate change.
Related/Prior Legislation
AB 1482 (Gordon, 2015) required the NRA, in coordination with the SGC, to coordinate existing grant programs to address climate change and adaptation across state agencies and to identify and coordinate opportunities to expend funds from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, Proposition 1 of 2014, and other sources, to implement adaptation strategies. AB 1482 is on the Assembly Floor.
SB 1217 (Leno, 2014) would have required the NRA and SGC to prepare a climate risk assessment and strategy evaluating California’s vulnerability and risk for climate change impacts and to identify and prioritize climate resiliency projects. SB 1217 died in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
AB 2329 (Ruskin, Chesbro, 2010) would have enacted the Climate Action Team Act of 2010 to coordinate oversight of state agency efforts to meet GHG reduction targets, including development and implementation of mitigation and adaptation plans, and enacted the California Climate Vulnerability & Adaptation Plan of 2010. AB 2329 failed on the Senate floor.
SB 721 (Steinberg, 2009) was a reintroduction of SB 1760 (Perata, 2008) as specified below. SB 721 would also have required the CAT to biennially prepare and adopt a climate change impact mitigation and adaptation plan including specified info. SB 721 died in the Senate Appropriations Committee.
SB 1760 (Perata, 2008) would have created the CAT in statute and required an annual strategic research, development, demonstration, and deployment plan with expenditures in those areas, to be administered by the Department of Transportation for clean technology, environmental protection, and public interest energy research consistent with the plan. SB 1760 was vetoed by the Governor.
FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: Yes Local: No
According to the Senate Appropriations Committee:
Unknown one-time costs, at least in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, to the General Fund for the necessary activities to inform the required update of the CAS and the APG.
Unknown costs, potentially in the high tens of thousands of dollars, to the General Fund to the OPR to support the advisory committee.
Audubon California
California League of Conservation Voters
Center for Climate Protection
Climate Resolve
Defenders of Wildlife
Environment California
Friends of the River
Local Government Commission
Public Health Institute’s Center for Climate Change & Health
Sierra Club California
The Nature Conservancy
TreePeople
None received
ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT: Sierra Club California states that “it will be imperative for state agencies to effectively prepare for the impacts of climate disruption in the coming years. SB 246 will help advance that preparation.”
A coalition of environmental, conservation, and public health interests notes, “California’s changing climate poses an increasing threat to human health, public safety, natural resources, and property.
“The state needs to develop adaptation strategies to buffer these detrimental impacts. These efforts require coordinating state agencies to implement and support adaptation programs through the use of up-to-date data, tools, and best-practices that are made available through cutting-edge scientific assessments, research and case studies.
“These actions [of SB 246] will optimize the state’s collective ability to address climate change impacts.”
Prepared by: Laurie Harris / E.Q. / (916) 651-4108
6/2/15 22:03:03
**** END ****
SB 246 (Wieckowski) Page 4 of 4
SENATE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
Senator Ricardo Lara, Chair
2015 - 2016 Regular Session
SB 246 (Wieckowski) - Climate Action Team.
|
|
Version: May 5, 2015 |
Policy Vote: E.Q. 6 - 0 |
Urgency: No |
Mandate: No |
Hearing Date: May 28, 2015 |
Consultant: Marie Liu |
SUSPENSE FILE. AS AMENDED.
Bill Summary:
SB 246 would create the Climate Action Team (CAT) and an advisory council. The CAT would be required to update the state’s adaptation strategy, regularly update the Adaptation Planning Guide, and to hold public meetings and workshops.
Fiscal Impact (as approved on May 28, 2015):
Unknown one-time costs, at least in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, to the General Fund for the necessary activities to inform the required update of the Climate Adaptation Strategy and the Adaptation Planning Guide.
Unknown costs, potentially in the high tens of thousands of dollars, to the General Fund to the Office of Planning and Research to support the advisory committee.
Background:
The existing Climate Action Team was initially created under the direction of Governor Schwarzenegger. It is led by the secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency (secretary) and consists of various secretaries and heads of state boards and departments. The CAT was tasked by Executive Order S-3-05 to coordinate the overall climate policy of the state. Legislative intent established in Health and Safety Code §38501 further supports the CAT in this role. With this authority, the CAT has issued a number of reports, including the 2015 Climate Change Research Plan which outlines statewide research and priorities for climate change.
The CAT also has established 10 working groups in issues such as agriculture, biodiversity, coastal and ocean climate adaptation, and forestry. Each of the working groups developed a Near-Term Implementation Plan (CATNIPs) which identified specific climate change mitigation measures and adaptation strategies for its issue area.
In December 2009, the Resources Agency released the California Climate Adaptation Strategy, pursuant to Executive Order S-13-2008 which directed the Resources Agency to identify how state agencies can respond to rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, sea level rise, and extreme natural events. The report noted that climate change is already affecting California with increased average temperatures, more extreme hot days, fewer cold nights, shifts in the water cycle, and the lengthening of the growing season. The report stated that not addressing these changes could cause significant economic damages to the state in the trillions of dollars; thus, the state must address climate change challenges with both climate adaptation and mitigation. The 2014 Safeguarding California Plan is an update to this strategy.
The 2012 California Adaptation Planning Guide, prepared and promoted by the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR), the Natural Resources Agency, and the Office of Emergency Services, was designed to provide guidance and support for local governments and regional collaboratives in addressing the impacts of climate change. The guide consists of an overview document and three companion documents for use as needed in defining local and regional impacts, understanding regional characteristics, and identifying adaptation strategies. The guide is meant to allow for flexibility across communities in terms of the time, money, and effort available for adaptation.
Proposed Law:
This bill would create the CAT and would task it with responsibilities related to adaptation. Specifically, this bill would:
Establish the CAT with the following membership:
Secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency (chair)
Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency
Chair of the Air Resources Board
President of the California Public Utilities Commission
Secretary of Transportation
Secretary of Food and Agriculture
Secretary of State and Consumer Services
Secretary of the California Health and Human Services
Director of the Office and Planning and Research
Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development
Director of Emergency Services
Authorize the secretary of CalEPA to add ex officio representatives from other state departments as necessary to provide assistance and expertise in particular subject areas.
Charge the CAT with the following goals:
To coordinate the climate policy of the state.
To identify the most effective strategies and methods to reduce GHG emissions and to adapt to climate change on the state, federal, and international level.
To coordinate research efforts.
To facilitate and development of integrated and cost-effective regional national, and international climate change programs.
To coordinate efficient use of state resources to achieve the state’s climates goals.
To consider the incorporation of climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies in state planning and policies.
To identify and disseminate information to local governments and regional bodies.
Create an advisory council to the CAT that would be comprised of 15 members from a range of disciplines to provide scientific and technical support to the CAT and to assist with research and planning activities. Five of the members would be appointed by the CAT, five by the Speaker of the Assembly, and five by the Senate Rules Committee for four-year terms. Their expertise should include public health, environmental quality, environmental justice, agriculture, transportation and housing, energy, natural resources and water, planning, recycling and waste management, and local or regional government.
Require that the CAT to update the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy by January 1, 2019, and every five years thereafter, to incorporate advances in science and risk management options.
Require the CAT and OPR to update the Adaptation Planning Guide by January 1, 2017, and every five years thereafter, to provide regional and local governments in creating and implementing climate adaptation and community resiliency plans and projects. As part of the update, the CAT and the advisory council would be required to hold public meetings and workshops at least annually in the northern, southern, and central regions of the state to collect public input.
Require the Adaptation Planning Guide to include, at a minimum, specific content including:
Information on funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects;
Regionally prioritized best-practice adaptation projects that integrate GHG reduction efforts where appropriate;
Adaptation planning templates for use locally and regionally; and
Guidelines for coordinating adaptation activities among state, regional, and local bodies.
Require the CAT and the advisory council to meet as needed but at least three times a year.
Related Legislation:
SB 1217 (Leno, 2014) would have required the Natural Resources Agency (agency) to prepare a climate risk assessment every three years beginning in 2018. SB 1217 was held by Assembly Appropriations.
Staff Comments:
While there is statutory language expressing legislative intent that the CAT coordinate the state’s overall climate policy, the CAT membership and mission has never been established in statute. As such, the actions of the CAT have been discretionary. This bill would make regular updates to the Climate Adaptation Strategy (CAS) and the Adaptation Planning Guide mandatory at a substantial state cost. Staff notes that these documents are not standalone efforts. For example, the 2009 CAS was largely supported by the 2009 Climate Change Assessment, which was the third in a series of assessments. The first three assessment cost between $900,000 and $3.7 million each. A fourth assessment, which is currently underway, was proposed at $5 million. Given the costs of the climate change assessments, staff estimates that this bill will necessitate ongoing on-going staff for the CAT as well as hundreds of thousands of dollars annually, if not more, to fund the supporting efforts that inform the reports.
This bill would require the creation of an advisory committee as well as public meetings. CalEPA estimates that it will need four to five new PY equivalents to provide for a dedicated administrative staff for the CAT, staff to staff the council, set up and management meetings, provide legal support, and to prepare the required reports.
Staff notes that this bill does not specify a funding source and will presumably be paid for by the General Fund. The Environmental License Plate Fund could fund the type of activities required by this bill but that fund is currently oversubscribed. Staff notes that the use of Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund for these purposes are probably questionable as that fund may only be used to fund activities that further the purpose of AB 32 and result in greenhouse gas emissions.
Staff notes that the CAT created in this bill does not fully mirror the existing CAT in membership. The CAT established in this bill includes the Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development and the Director of Emergency Services, both of which are not members of the existing CAT. Conversely the existing CAT has several members not included in the membership of this bill including the Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Department of Forestry and Fire, the Department of Water Resources, and the State Water Resources Control Board. While the Secretary of CalEPA is authorized to add ex officio representatives from other state departments has necessary, if the author’s intent is to codify the existing CAT, the membership should be identical, or at the very least, the bill should only add members, not exclude existing members.
Committee amendments (as adopted on May 28, 2015): Amend to delete the creation of the Climate Action Team and the ongoing updates to the adaptation strategy and planning guide. Instead require the Natural Resources Agency to do a one-time update of the 2009 Climate Adaptation Strategy and the OPR to do a one-time update to the Adaptation Planning Guide.
-- END --
SB 246 (Wieckowski) Page 4 of 4
SENATE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
Senator Ricardo Lara, Chair
2015 - 2016 Regular Session
SB 246 (Wieckowski) - Climate Action Team.
|
|
Version: May 5, 2015 |
Policy Vote: E.Q. 6 - 0 |
Urgency: No |
Mandate: No |
Hearing Date: May 18, 2015 |
Consultant: Marie Liu |
This bill meets the criteria for referral to the Suspense File.
Bill Summary:
SB 246 would create the Climate Action Team (CAT) and an advisory council. The CAT would be required to update the state’s adaptation strategy, regularly update the Adaptation Planning Guide, and to hold public meetings and workshops.
Fiscal Impact:
Approximately $750,000 from the General Fund for the California Environmental Protection Agency to staff the CAT and advisory council.
Unknown ongoing costs, at least in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, for the necessary activities to inform the required updates of the Climate Adaptation Strategy and the Adaptation Planning Guide.
Background:
The existing Climate Action Team was initially created under the direction of Governor Schwarzenegger. It is led by the secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency (secretary) and consists of various secretaries and heads of state boards and departments. The CAT was tasked by Executive Order S-3-05 to coordinate the overall climate policy of the state. Legislative intent established in Health and Safety Code §38501 further supports the CAT in this role. With this authority, the CAT has issued a number of reports, including the 2015 Climate Change Research Plan which outlines statewide research and priorities for climate change.
The CAT also has established 10 working groups in issues such as agriculture, biodiversity, coastal and ocean climate adaptation, and forestry. Each of the working groups developed a Near-Term Implementation Plan (CATNIPs) which identified specific climate change mitigation measures and adaptation strategies for its issue area.
In December 2009, the Resources Agency released the California Climate Adaptation Strategy, pursuant to Executive Order S-13-2008 which directed the Resources Agency to identify how state agencies can respond to rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, sea level rise, and extreme natural events. The report noted that climate change is already affecting California with increased average temperatures, more extreme hot days, fewer cold nights, shifts in the water cycle, and the lengthening of the growing season. The report stated that not addressing these changes could cause significant economic damages to the state in the trillions of dollars; thus, the state must address climate change challenges with both climate adaptation and mitigation. The 2014 Safeguarding California Plan is an update to this strategy.
The 2012 California Adaptation Planning Guide, prepared and promoted by the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR), the Natural Resources Agency, and the Office of Emergency Services, was designed to provide guidance and support for local governments and regional collaboratives in addressing the impacts of climate change. The guide consists of an overview document and three companion documents for use as needed in defining local and regional impacts, understanding regional characteristics, and identifying adaptation strategies. The guide is meant to allow for flexibility across communities in terms of the time, money, and effort available for adaptation.
Proposed Law:
This bill would create the CAT and would task it with responsibilities related to adaptation. Specifically, this bill would:
Establish the CAT with the following membership:
Secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency (chair)
Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency
Chair of the Air Resources Board
President of the California Public Utilities Commission
Secretary of Transportation
Secretary of Food and Agriculture
Secretary of State and Consumer Services
Secretary of the California Health and Human Services
Director of the Office and Planning and Research
Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development
Director of Emergency Services
Authorize the secretary of CalEPA to add ex officio representatives from other state departments as necessary to provide assistance and expertise in particular subject areas.
Charge the CAT with the following goals:
To coordinate the climate policy of the state.
To identify the most effective strategies and methods to reduce GHG emissions and to adapt to climate change on the state, federal, and international level.
To coordinate research efforts.
To facilitate and development of integrated and cost-effective regional national, and international climate change programs.
To coordinate efficient use of state resources to achieve the state’s climates goals.
To consider the incorporation of climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies in state planning and policies.
To identify and disseminate information to local governments and regional bodies.
Create an advisory council to the CAT that would be comprised of 15 members from a range of disciplines to provide scientific and technical support to the CAT and to assist with research and planning activities. Five of the members would be appointed by the CAT, five by the Speaker of the Assembly, and five by the Senate Rules Committee for four-year terms. Their expertise should include public health, environmental quality, environmental justice, agriculture, transportation and housing, energy, natural resources and water, planning, recycling and waste management, and local or regional government.
Require that the CAT to update the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy by January 1, 2019, and every five years thereafter, to incorporate advances in science and risk management options.
Require the CAT and OPR to update the Adaptation Planning Guide by January 1, 2017, and every five years thereafter, to provide regional and local governments in creating and implementing climate adaptation and community resiliency plans and projects. As part of the update, the CAT and the advisory council would be required to hold public meetings and workshops at least annually in the northern, southern, and central regions of the state to collect public input.
Require the Adaptation Planning Guide to include, at a minimum, specific content including:
Information on funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects;
Regionally prioritized best-practice adaptation projects that integrate GHG reduction efforts where appropriate;
Adaptation planning templates for use locally and regionally; and
Guidelines for coordinating adaptation activities among state, regional, and local bodies.
Require the CAT and the advisory council to meet as needed but at least three times a year.
Related Legislation:
SB 1217 (Leno, 2014) would have required the Natural Resources Agency (agency) to prepare a climate risk assessment every three years beginning in 2018. SB 1217 was held by Assembly Appropriations.
Staff Comments:
While there is statutory language expressing legislative intent that the CAT coordinate the state’s overall climate policy, the CAT membership and mission has never been established in statute. As such, the actions of the CAT have been discretionary. This bill would make regular updates to the Climate Adaptation Strategy (CAS) and the Adaptation Planning Guide mandatory at a substantial state cost. Staff notes that these documents are not standalone efforts. For example, the 2009 CAS was largely supported by the 2009 Climate Change Assessment, which was the third in a series of assessments. The first three assessment cost between $900,000 and $3.7 million each. A fourth assessment, which is currently underway, was proposed at $5 million. Given the costs of the climate change assessments, staff estimates that this bill will necessitate ongoing on-going staff for the CAT as well as hundreds of thousands of dollars annually, if not more, to fund the supporting efforts that inform the reports.
This bill would require the creation of an advisory committee as well as public meetings. CalEPA estimates that it will need four to five new PY equivalents to provide for a dedicated administrative staff for the CAT, staff to staff the council, set up and management meetings, provide legal support, and to prepare the required reports.
Staff notes that this bill does not specify a funding source and will presumably be paid for by the General Fund. The Environmental License Plate Fund could fund the type of activities required by this bill but that fund is currently oversubscribed. Staff notes that the use of Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund for these purposes are probably questionable as that fund may only be used to fund activities that further the purpose of AB 32 and result in greenhouse gas emissions.
Staff notes that the CAT created in this bill does not fully mirror the existing CAT in membership. The CAT established in this bill includes the Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development and the Director of Emergency Services, both of which are not members of the existing CAT. Conversely the existing CAT has several members not included in the membership of this bill including the Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Department of Forestry and Fire, the Department of Water Resources, and the State Water Resources Control Board. While the Secretary of CalEPA is authorized to add ex officio representatives from other state departments has necessary, if the author’s intent is to codify the existing CAT, the membership should be identical, or at the very least, the bill should only add members, not exclude existing members.
-- END --
SB 246 (Wieckowski) Page 8 of 8
SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Senator Wieckowski, Chair
2015 - 2016 Regular
Bill No: SB 246
Author: |
Wieckowski |
||
Version: |
4/13/2015 |
Hearing Date: |
4/29/2015 |
Urgency: |
No |
Fiscal: |
Yes |
Consultant: |
Laurie Harris |
||
SUBJECT: Climate Action Team
ANALYSIS:
Existing law:
Under the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (referred to as AB 32), states that it is the intent of the Legislature that the Climate Action Team, established by the Governor to coordinate the efforts set forth under Executive Order S-3-05, continue its role in coordinating the overall climate policy of the state. (Health and Safety Code §38501)
Establishes the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) as a special fund in the State Treasury; requires that all moneys, except for fines and penalties, collected pursuant to a market-based mechanism be deposited in the fund; and requires the Department of Finance, in consultation with the California Air Resources Board (ARB) and any other relevant state agency, to develop, as specified, a three-year investment plan for the moneys deposited in the GGRF. (Government Code §16428.8)
Requires the Climate Action Team to provide information to assist in the development of each three-year investment plan, participate in public workshops held on each plan, and provide testimony to the ARB on each plan. (HSC §39716)
Requires that moneys deposited in the GGRF be used to facilitate the achievement of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions in the state and, where applicable and to the extent feasible, lessen the impacts and effects of climate change on the state’s communities, economy, and environment, among other potential specified co-benefits. (HSC §39712)
This bill:
Declares the Legislature’s intent to integrate adaptation strategies into state policies, projects, and permitting processes.
Creates the Climate Action Team (CAT) in statute, under the direction of the Secretary for Environmental Protection, consisting of representatives from specified state agencies. Allows representatives from other state departments to be added as necessary upon the determination of the Secretary, and the CAT to form multiagency working groups.
Requires the CAT to be responsible for coordinating the state’s climate policy to achieve the state’s climate change goals, including:
Coordination of climate change policies within California, nationally, and internationally;
Coordination of the efficient use of existing state resources and the recommendation of additional policies and investment strategies for addressing climate change goals;
Consideration of mitigation and adaptation strategies, where appropriate, in state planning and policies; and
Identification and dissemination of information to local governments and regional bodies.
Requires the CAT, in coordination with relevant public and private entities, to coordinate an update to the state’s Climate Adaptation Strategy (CAS) no later than January 1, 2019 and every five years thereafter to incorporate advances in climate science and risk management options.
Requires the CAT, in coordination with the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) and relevant public and private entities, to coordinate an update to the state’s Adaptation Planning Guide (APG) no later than January 1, 2017, and every five years thereafter to provide tools and guidance to regional and local governments and agencies in creating and implementing adaptation and resiliency plans and projects. The update shall be informed by the Climate Adaptation Strategy, and include, at a minimum:
Funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects;
Regionally prioritized best-practice adaptation projects that integrate GHG reduction efforts where appropriate;
Recommended metrics and indicators to track progress of adaptation efforts locally, regionally, and statewide;
Adaptation planning templates for use locally and regionally; and
Guidelines for coordinating adaptation activities among state, regional, and local bodies.
As part of updating the Adaptation Planning Guide, requires the CAT and advisory council to hold public meetings and workshops at least annually in the northern, southern, and central regions of the state.
Creates an advisory council to the CAT to provide scientific and technical support, as well as regional and local perspectives. Requires the council to be comprised of 15 members, 5 each appointed by the Governor, Speaker of the Assembly, and Senate Rules Committee, based on their expertise in the intersection of climate change and a range of areas within the purview of the CAT, as specified.
Background
Executive Orders Relating to the Climate Action Team and Adaptation.
Executive
order S-3-05 established
GHG emission reduction targets, created the Climate Action Team, and
directed the Secretary of CalEPA to coordinate efforts to meet the
targets with the heads of other state agencies. The order required
the Secretary to report back to the Governor and Legislature
biannually on progress toward meeting the GHG targets, GHG impacts to
California, as well as mitigation and adaptation plans.
Executive Order S-13-08 directed state agencies to plan for climate impacts specifically from sea level rise. It further directed the Natural Resources Agency, through the CAT, to coordinate the California Climate Adaptation Strategy by June 2009, noting “California must begin now to adapt and build our resiliency to coming climate changes through a thoughtful and sensible approach with local, regional, state and federal government using the best available science.”
Overview of the Climate Action Team Today.
According to the Climate Action Team’s website, the CAT is comprised of state agency secretaries and the heads of agency, boards, and departments, chaired by the Secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency. Furthermore, the team works to coordinate statewide efforts to implement GHG emission reduction programs, as well as the state’s Climate Adaptation Strategy.
In addition to the CAT members, there are 10 working groups, including the following areas: agriculture, biodiversity, coastal and ocean climate adaptation team, interagency forestry, intergovernmental, land use and infrastructure, research, public health, state government, and water energy. These working groups support the activities of the CAT through such activities as conducting research, producing informational documents, organizing workshops, and conducting outreach.
California’s Climate Change Documents.
Beginning in 2006, there have been three climate change assessment documents prepared by state agencies to better understand risks of climate change to California. Currently, a fourth assessment is being prepared, intended to provide information to support adaptation decisions. This latest assessment is the first interagency effort to implement a large part of the Climate Change Research Plan (Research Plan) and will serve as a request for proposals for ongoing research concerning climate change.
The 2015 Climate Change Research Plan was prepared by the CAT, involving almost 50 authors from 16 agencies. The Research Plan outlines statewide research priorities for climate change. Some of these major areas of research include:
Improved methods and indicators for monitoring climate change;
Improved methods to “downscale” global climate projections to support risk assessments and adaptation planning;
Refined GHG emissions accounting methods and reduction pathways;
Incorporation of new climate science into a risk assessment framework, and identification of robust adaptation strategies that would fare well under multiple potential climate scenarios from local to statewide levels; and
Synergies between mitigation and adaptation efforts.
California’s Adaptation Documents.
The 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy is a statewide strategy that includes a summary of impacts from climate change and provides recommendations for adaptation strategies in seven sectors, including public health, water, agriculture, transportation and energy, forestry, biodiversity and habitat, and oceans and coastal resources. Overall, it provides guidance for establishing adaptation and resiliency actions for the state. The 2014 Safeguarding California Plan is an update to the strategy that augments climate adaptation strategies based on new climate science and risk management options.
The 2012 California Adaptation Planning Guide, prepared and promoted by OPR, the Natural Resources Agency, and the Office of Emergency Services, was designed to provide guidance and support for local governments and regional collaboratives in addressing the impacts of climate change. The guide consists of an overview document and three companion documents for use as needed in defining local and regional impacts, understanding regional characteristics, and identifying adaptation strategies. The guide is meant to allow for flexibility across communities in terms of the time, money, and effort available for adaptation.
Comments
Purpose of Bill.
According to the author, “Currently, the state lacks a coordinated, comprehensive approach for adapting to the impacts of climate change. While California has been a leader in climate mitigation efforts, the state alone cannot prevent global climate change and must prepare for the inevitable impacts through planning and implementing adaptation strategies in addition to continuing mitigation efforts.
“Regional collaboratives and local governments have been at the forefront of efforts to plan and implement adaptation projects, though many lack the scientific expertise, knowledge on adaptation best-practices, funding opportunities, and metrics to evaluate their progress with adaptation. Given their efforts and needs, improved coordination and communication with state agencies overseeing the state’s climate policy is important for developing comprehensive, statewide adaptation efforts.
“SB
246 establishes the cross-agency Climate Action Team in statute and
tasks the CAT with coordinating the state’s climate policy, as
previously intended by Executive Order and in statute, including both
mitigation and adaptation. The bill further tasks the CAT with
coordinating updates to the state’s Climate Adaptation Strategy and
Adaptation Planning Guide as specified. These resources, in
combination with opportunities for public meetings, and the creation
of an advisory council to provide scientific or technical support,
and regional and local perspectives, will help ensure that state,
regional, and local adaptation efforts are coordinated to provide
resiliency to climate impacts for communities across California.”
The Need for Improving Adaptation Efforts in California.
According to the 2014 independent report “Governing California Through Climate Change” by the Little Hoover Commission (LHC)—a bipartisan state oversight agency—based on hearings, meetings, and interviews with climate change experts and stakeholders throughout the state, there is a need for a more unified approach to adaptation from the state government. The report notes the thorough and proactive efforts of the state to understand the challenges and vulnerabilities from climate change. However, the report also notes that most adaptation strategies at the state level are still advisory and have been developed without coordination with local governments and the private sector, which have largely been planning and implementing projects individually or with regional collaboratives.
Specific recommendations from the LHC’s report included:
That the Governor and Legislature create a new state entity or enhance the institutional capacity of an existing organization, which should include an independent science board, to help California’s multitude of governments prepare for and react to climate change; and
That the California Strategic Growth Council expand its focus beyond reduction of carbon emissions to include a greater emphasis on adaptation to the impacts of climate change.
Who Should Coordinate Adaptation Efforts in California?
Previous legislative efforts have tried to place the task of coordinating the state’s adaptation efforts with both the Climate Action Team and the Strategic Growth Council, two cross-agency bodies dealing with climate change issues.
The Strategic Growth Council (SGC) was established by SB 732 (Steinberg), Chapter 729, Statutes of 2008. SGC is comprised of 10 members representing six agencies, OPR, and three public members and was created to focus attention on climate change and coordinated sustainable growth. SGC is also responsible for awarding sustainable community grants and is tasked with identifying and reviewing activities and funding programs of member agencies that may be coordinated to improve air and water quality, increase the availability of affordable housing, improve transportation, meet the goals of AB 32, encourage sustainable land use, and revitalize urban and community centers in a sustainable manner, in addition to helping local and regional bodies develop and plan sustainable communities.
It seems reasonable that both the CAT and the SGC place an emphasis on adaptation, given the urgency and importance of the topic. Within the SGC, certainly considerations of adaptation and resiliency must be incorporated into infrastructure as the state grows. Within the CAT, there is large agency representation, previous direction to coordinate the state’s overall climate strategy, and multiple cross-agency working groups; these factors may make the CAT the appropriate body to undertake broad coordination of adaptation across sectors in California.
Technical Clarifying Changes.
On page 4, lines 39-40, the CAT is directed to update “the Climate Adaptation Strategy and the Safeguarding California Plan.” As the Safeguarding Plan is an update to the Climate Adaptation Strategy, this should be clarified. An amendment is needed to state “the Climate Adaptation Strategy, for which the first update was titled the Safeguarding California Plan, to incorporate…”
On page 5, line 15, the first listing of information to be included for the Adaptation Planning Guide states, “Funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects.” Because the CAT is not authorized to receive or expend moneys for funding such adaptation efforts, this provision should be amended to state “Information concerning funding opportunities for adaptation research, planning, and projects.”
Related/Prior Legislation
AB 1482 (Gordon, 2015) would expand the duties of the SGC to coordinate state agency climate adaptation efforts and require the Natural Resources Agency, with the SGC, to coordinate existing grants and programs to address climate change and adaptation by maximizing specified objectives. AB 1482 is currently referred to the Assembly Committee on Natural Resources.
SB 1217 (Leno, 2014) required the Natural Resources Agency and SGC to prepare a climate risk assessment and strategy evaluating California’s vulnerability and risk for climate change impacts and to identify and prioritize climate resiliency projects. SB 1217 died in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
AB 2329 (Ruskin, Chesbro, 2010) enacted the Climate Action Team Act of 2010 to coordinate oversight of state agency efforts to meet GHG reduction targets, including development and implementation of mitigation and adaptation plans, and enacted the California Climate Vulnerability & Adaptation Plan of 2010. AB 2329 failed on the Senate floor.
SB 721 (Steinberg, 2009) was a reintroduction of SB 1760 (Perata) of 2008 as specified below. SB 721 would also have required the CAT to biennially prepare and adopt a climate change impact mitigation and adaptation plan including specified info. SB 721 died in the Senate Appropriations Committee.
SB 1760 (Perata, 2008) created the CAT in statute and required an annual strategic research, development, demonstration, and deployment plan with expenditures in those areas, to be administered by the Department of Transportation for clean technology, environmental protection, and public interest energy research consistent with the plan. SB 1760 was vetoed by the Governor.
SOURCE:
Author
SUPPORT:
Audubon California
California League of Conservation Voters
Climate Resolve
Defenders of Wildlife
Environment California
Friends of the River
Local Government Commission
Public Health Institute’s Center for Climate Change & Health
The Nature Conservancy
Sierra Club California
OPPOSITION:
None on file
ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT:
Sierra Club California states that “it will be imperative for state agencies to effectively prepare for the impacts of climate disruption in the coming years. SB 246 will help advance that preparation.”
A coalition of environmental, conservation, and public health interests notes, “California’s changing climate poses an increasing threat to human health, public safety, natural resources, and property.
“The state needs to develop adaptation strategies to buffer these detrimental impacts. These efforts require coordinating state agencies to implement and support adaptation programs through the use of up-to-date data, tools, and best-practices that are made available through cutting-edge scientific assessments, research and case studies.
“These actions [of SB 246] will optimize the state’s collective ability to address climate change impacts.”
-- END --
Discussed in Hearing
2MIN
Senate Floor
2MIN
Assembly Floor
1MIN
Assembly Floor
4MIN
Assembly Standing Committee on Natural Resources
3MIN
Senate Floor
24SEC
Senate Standing Committee on Appropriations
5MIN
Senate Standing Committee on Environmental Quality
Bill Author
Bill Co-Author(s):