AB 2349: State Air Resources Board: regional air quality incident response program.
- Session Year: 2025-2026
- House: Assembly
- Latest Version Date: 2026-08-26
Current Status:
Failed
(2026-09-18: Vetoed by Governor.)
Introduced
In Committee
Awaiting First Chamber Vote
Passed First Chamber
In Committee
Awaiting Second Chamber Vote
Passed Second Chamber
Enacted
Existing law generally designates the State Air Resources Board as the state agency with the primary responsibility for the control of vehicular air pollution, and air pollution control districts and air quality management districts with the primary responsibility for the control of air pollution from all sources other than vehicular sources. Existing law requires the state board to inventory sources of air pollution within the air basins of the state, determine the kinds and quantity of air pollutants, and monitor air pollutants in cooperation with districts and other agencies.
This bill would require the state board to expand its incident air monitoring program, subject to an appropriation by the Legislature for those purposes, to provide support for a regional network of air quality incident response centers, including at least one air quality incident response and evaluation center located at the South Coast Air Quality Management District, in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level. The bill would require each air quality incident response center to be operated by the state board or an air district and would require the state board and each district that operates an air quality incident response center to coordinate to provide emergency air monitoring response for disasters or other crises impacting air quality and public health in the state. The bill would provide that funding made available by the Legislature for purposes of these provisions may be used for various purposes, including program funding to plan, create, equip, and maintain air quality incident response centers.
To the extent that the bill would expand the duties of an air district, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.
The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.
This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.
Existing law generally designates the State Air Resources Board as the state agency with the primary responsibility for the control of vehicular air pollution, and air pollution control districts and air quality management districts with the primary responsibility for the control of air pollution from all sources other than vehicular sources. Existing law requires the state board to inventory sources of air pollution within the air basins of the state, determine the kinds and quantity of air pollutants, and monitor air pollutants in cooperation with districts and other agencies.
This bill would require the state board to expand its incident air monitoring program, subject to an appropriation by the Legislature for those purposes, to provide support for a regional network of air quality incident response centers, including at least one air quality incident response and evaluation center located at the South Coast Air Quality Management District, in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level. The bill would require each air quality incident response center to be operated by the state board or an air district and would require the state board and each district that operates an air quality incident response center to coordinate to provide emergency air monitoring response for disasters or other crises impacting air quality and public health in the state. The bill would provide that funding made available by the Legislature for purposes of these provisions may be used for various purposes, including program funding to plan, create, equip, and maintain air quality incident response centers.
To the extent that the bill would expand the duties of an air district, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.
The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.
This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.
Existing law generally designates the State Air Resources Board as the state agency with the primary responsibility for the control of vehicular air pollution, and air pollution control districts and air quality management districts with the primary responsibility for the control of air pollution from all sources other than vehicular sources. Existing law requires the state board to inventory sources of air pollution within the air basins of the state, determine the kinds and quantity of air pollutants, and monitor air pollutants in cooperation with districts and other agencies.
This bill would require the state board to expand its incident air monitoring program, subject to an appropriation by the Legislature for those purposes, to provide support for a regional network of air quality incident response centers, including at least one air quality incident response and evaluation center located at the South Coast Air Quality Management District, in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level. The bill would require each air quality incident response center to be operated by the state board or an air district and would require the state board and each district that operates an air quality incident response center to coordinate to provide emergency air monitoring response for disasters or other crises impacting air quality and public health in the state. The bill would provide that funding made available by the Legislature for purposes of these provisions may be used for various purposes, including program funding to plan, create, equip, and maintain air quality incident response centers.
To the extent that the bill would expand the duties of an air district, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.
The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.
This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.
For purposes of this chapter, the following definitions apply:
(a)Air contaminant includes any toxic air contaminant designated or identified pursuant to Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 39650), and as defined in Section 39013, and any substance as listed in the Table of Standards pursuant to Section 70200 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.
(b)Air quality incident response center means an air quality incident response center established pursuant to this chapter to facilitate emergency air monitoring.
39951.Subject to an appropriation by the Legislature for purposes of this chapter, the state board shall expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support in accordance with this chapter for a regional network of air quality incident response centers in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level.
39952.(a)(1)The state board and the districts shall jointly select each location throughout the state where an air quality incident response center will be established by the state board or a district for purposes of this chapter, including at least one air quality incident response and evaluation center located at the south coast district.
(2)Before establishing an air quality incident response center within its jurisdiction, a district shall coordinate with the state board and any other relevant district to develop operational plans for the air quality incident response center.
(3)Each entity shall be responsible for operating the air quality incident response center that it establishes pursuant to paragraph (1).
(b)The state board and each district that operates an air quality incident response center shall coordinate to provide emergency air monitoring response for disasters or other crises impacting air quality and public health in the state, as determined by the state board and those districts.
(c)The state board and each district that operates an air quality incident response center shall only be responsible for performing the duties set forth in this chapter to the extent that funding is provided by the Legislature for those purposes.
39953.Funding made available by the Legislature for purposes of this chapter may be used, but is not limited to being used, for any of the following purposes:
(a)Program funding to plan, create, equip, and maintain air quality incident response centers, including for the acquisition of monitoring equipment and systems, vehicles, and other necessary equipment, and facilities, needed to support air quality incident response centers, and to plan, develop, implement, and conduct training on incident response protocols.
(b)Air quality data collection, maintenance, analysis, presentation, dissemination, modeling, and publishing, and the integration of that data into a unified command or joint information center, and other related activities.
(c)The funding of staffing resources, including regional emergency response coordinators and technical staff at districts that operate air quality incident response centers, develop plans, prepare for, and respond during, incidents and as needed for investigation and recovery efforts.
(d)Training and preparedness exercises for state board staff and the staff of districts that operate air quality incident response centers to facilitate expeditious, efficient, and effective emergency air monitoring responses to provide air quality information to the public and protect public health.
(e)Providing expertise to translate air monitoring data collection, analyses, and modeling results in terms of impacts on public health.
(f)Coordinating with relevant state and local agencies, local governments, and public health departments, including districts, to provide unified command and joint information centers, and other organizations with air quality data and analysis to inform the public and local response and recovery efforts.
39954.As part of the operation of an air quality incident response center, air quality monitoring may be conducted for targeted air contaminants of concern, as identified by the state board or the district operating that air quality incident response center, during disaster or emergency situations and during the recovery period from a disaster or emergency to aid impacted communities, and may be conducted, as needed, in coordination with unified command centers, joint information centers, other state agencies, local public health agencies, and other entities, as appropriate.
SEC. 2.If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code.
For purposes of this chapter, the following definitions apply:
(a)Air contaminant includes any toxic air contaminant designated or identified pursuant to Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 39650), and as defined in Section 39013, and any substance as listed in the Table of Standards pursuant to Section 70200 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.
(b)Air quality incident response center means an air quality incident response center established pursuant to this chapter to facilitate emergency air monitoring.
39951.Subject to an appropriation by the Legislature for purposes of this chapter, the state board shall expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support in accordance with this chapter for a regional network of air quality incident response centers in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level.
39952.(a)(1)The state board and the districts shall jointly select each location throughout the state where an air quality incident response center will be established by the state board or a district for purposes of this chapter, including at least one air quality incident response and evaluation center located at the south coast district.
(2)Before establishing an air quality incident response center within its jurisdiction, a district shall coordinate with the state board and any other relevant district to develop operational plans for the air quality incident response center.
(3)Each entity shall be responsible for operating the air quality incident response center that it establishes pursuant to paragraph (1).
(b)The state board and each district that operates an air quality incident response center shall coordinate to provide emergency air monitoring response for disasters or other crises impacting air quality and public health in the state, as determined by the state board and those districts.
(c)The state board and each district that operates an air quality incident response center shall only be responsible for performing the duties set forth in this chapter to the extent that funding is provided by the Legislature for those purposes.
39953.Funding made available by the Legislature for purposes of this chapter may be used, but is not limited to being used, for any of the following purposes:
(a)Program funding to plan, create, equip, and maintain air quality incident response centers, including for the acquisition of monitoring equipment and systems, vehicles, and other necessary equipment, and facilities, needed to support air quality incident response centers, and to plan, develop, conduct training on, and implement implement, and conduct training on incident response protocols.
(b)Air quality data collection, maintenance, analysis, presentation, dissemination, modeling, and publishing, and the integration of that data into a unified command or joint information center, and other related activities.
(c)The funding of staffing resources, including regional emergency response coordinators and technical staff at districts that operate air quality incident response centers, develop plans, prepare for, and respond during, incidents and as needed for investigation and recovery efforts.
(d)Training and preparedness exercises for state board staff and the staff of districts that operate air quality incident response centers to facilitate expeditious, efficient, and effective emergency air monitoring responses to provide air quality information to the public and protect public health.
(e)Providing expertise to translate air monitoring data collection, analyses, and modeling results in terms of impacts on public health.
(f)Coordinating with relevant state and local agencies, local governments, and public health departments, including districts, to provide unified command and joint information centers, and other organizations with air quality data and analysis to inform the public and local response and recovery efforts.
39954.As part of the operation of an air quality incident response center, air quality monitoring may be conducted for targeted air contaminants of concern, as identified by the state board or the district operating that air quality incident response center, during disaster or emergency situations and during the recovery period from a disaster or emergency to aid impacted communities, and may be conducted, as needed, in coordination with unified command centers, joint information centers, other state agencies, local public health agencies, and other entities, as appropriate.
SEC. 2.If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code.
For purposes of this chapter, the following definitions apply:
(a)Air contaminant includes any toxic air contaminant designated or identified pursuant to Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 39650), and as defined in Section 39013, and any substance as listed in the Table of Standards pursuant to Section 70200 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.
(b)Air quality incident response center means an air quality incident response center established pursuant to this chapter to facilitate emergency air monitoring.
39951.Subject to an appropriation by the Legislature for purposes of this chapter, the state board shall expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support in accordance with this chapter for a regional network of air quality incident response centers in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level.
39952.(a)(1)The state board and the districts shall jointly select each location throughout the state where an air quality incident response center will be established by the state board or a district for purposes of this chapter, including at least one air quality incident response and evaluation center located at the south coast district.
(2)Before establishing an air quality incident response center within its jurisdiction, a district shall coordinate with the state board and any other relevant district to develop operational plans for the air quality incident response center.
(3)Each entity shall be responsible for operating the air quality incident response center that it establishes pursuant to paragraph (1).
(b)The state board and each district that operates an air quality incident response center shall coordinate to provide emergency air monitoring response for disasters or other crises impacting air quality and public health in the state, as determined by the state board and those districts.
(c)The state board and each district that operates an air quality incident response center shall only be responsible for performing the duties set forth in this chapter to the extent that funding is provided by the Legislature for those purposes.
39953.Funding made available by the Legislature for purposes of this chapter may be used, but is not limited to being used, for any of the following purposes:
(a)Program funding to plan, create, equip, and maintain air quality incident response centers, including for the acquisition of monitoring equipment and systems, vehicles, and other necessary equipment, and facilities, needed to support air quality incident response centers, and to plan, develop, conduct training on, and implement incident response protocols.
(b)Air quality data collection, maintenance, analysis, presentation, dissemination, modeling, and publishing, and the integration of that data into a unified command or joint information center, and other related activities.
(c)The funding of staffing resources, including regional emergency response coordinators and technical staff at districts that operate air quality incident response centers, develop plans, prepare for, and respond during, incidents and as needed for investigation and recovery efforts.
(d)Training and preparedness exercises for state board staff and the staff of districts that operate air quality incident response centers to facilitate expeditious, efficient, and effective emergency air monitoring responses to provide air quality information to the public and protect public health.
(e)Providing expertise to translate air monitoring data collection, analyses, and modeling results in terms of impacts on public health.
(f)Coordinating with relevant state and local agencies, local governments, and public health departments, including districts, to provide unified command and joint information centers, and other organizations with air quality data and analysis to inform the public and local response and recovery efforts.
39954.As part of the operation of an air quality incident response center, air quality monitoring may be conducted for targeted air contaminants of concern, as identified by the state board or the district operating that air quality incident response center, during disaster or emergency situations and during the recovery period from a disaster or emergency to aid impacted communities, and may be conducted, as needed, in coordination with unified command centers, joint information centers, other state agencies, local public health agencies, and other entities, as appropriate.
SEC. 2.If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code.
REVISIONS: HeadingLine 2.|
Date
|
Status
|
|---|---|
| Sep 18, 2026 | Vetoed by Governor. |
| Aug 28, 2026 | Enrolled and presented to the Governor at 3:30 p.m. |
| Aug 24, 2026 | Senate amendments concurred in. To Engrossing and Enrolling. (Ayes 77. Noes 0.). |
| Aug 24, 2026 | Senate amendments concurred in. To Engrossing and Enrolling. (Ayes 77. Noes 0. Page 6410.). |
| Aug 24, 2026 | Senate amendments concurred in. To Engrossing and Enrolling. |
| Aug 20, 2026 | In Assembly. Concurrence in Senate amendments pending. |
| Aug 20, 2026 | Read third time. Passed. Ordered to the Assembly. (Ayes 39. Noes 0.). |
| Aug 20, 2026 | Read third time. Passed. Ordered to the Assembly. (Ayes 39. Noes 0. Page 5592.). |
| Aug 18, 2026 | Ordered to special consent calendar. |
| Aug 13, 2026 | Read second time. Ordered to third reading. |
| Aug 13, 2026 | From committee: Do pass. (Ayes 7. Noes 0.) (August 13). |
| Aug 3, 2026 | In committee: Referred to APPR. suspense file. |
| Jul 1, 2026 | From committee chair, with author's amendments: Amend, and re-refer to committee. Read second time, amended, and re-referred to Com. on APPR. |
| Jun 24, 2026 | From committee: Do pass and re-refer to Com. on APPR. (Ayes 7. Noes 0.) (June 24). Re-referred to Com. on APPR. |
| Jun 10, 2026 | Referred to Com. on E.Q. |
| May 27, 2026 | In Senate. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment. |
| May 26, 2026 | Read third time. Passed. Ordered to the Senate. (Ayes 78. Noes 0.) |
| May 26, 2026 | Read third time. Passed. Ordered to the Senate. (Ayes 78. Noes 0. Page 5316.) |
| May 26, 2026 | Read third time. Passed. Ordered to the Senate. |
| May 18, 2026 | Read second time. Ordered to third reading. |
| May 14, 2026 | From committee: Do pass. (Ayes 15. Noes 0.) (May 14). |
| Apr 22, 2026 | In committee: Set, first hearing. Referred to APPR. suspense file. |
| Apr 7, 2026 | From committee: Do pass and re-refer to Com. on APPR. (Ayes 14. Noes 0.) (April 6). Re-referred to Com. on APPR. |
| Apr 7, 2026 | Coauthors revised. |
| Mar 9, 2026 | Referred to Com. on NAT. RES. |
| Feb 20, 2026 | From printer. May be heard in committee March 22. |
| Feb 19, 2026 | Read first time. To print. |
|
Date
|
Description
|
Location
|
Votes
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 24, 2026 | AB 2349 Solache Concurrence in Senate Amendments | Assembly Floor |
Passed |
|
| Aug 20, 2026 | Special Consent AB2349 Solache et al. | Senate Floor |
Passed |
|
| Aug 13, 2026 | Do pass | Senate Standing Committee on Appropriations |
Passed |
|
| Aug 3, 2026 | Placed on suspense file | Senate Standing Committee on Appropriations |
Passed |
|
| Jun 24, 2026 | Do pass, but first be re-referred to the Committee on [Appropriations] | Senate Standing Committee on Environmental Quality |
Passed |
|
| May 26, 2026 | AB 2349 Solache Assembly Third Reading | Assembly Floor |
Passed |
|
| May 14, 2026 | Do pass. | Assembly Standing Committee on Appropriations |
Passed |
|
| Apr 6, 2026 | Do pass and be re-referred to the Committee on [Appropriations] | Assembly Standing Committee on Natural Resources |
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
|
|---|---|---|
| Breathe California of Los Angeles County | ** Support | |
| California Air Pollution Control Officers Association | ** Support | |
| California Contract Cities Association | ** Support | |
| City of Indian Wells | ** Support | |
| Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson, City of Riverside | ** Support | |
| Orange County Fire Authority | ** Support | |
| San Diego County Air Pollution Control District | ** Support | |
| South Coast Air Quality Management District | ** Support |
GOVERNOR'S VETO
GV Bill Id:AB 2349
Author:(Solache)
As Enrolled Ver:August 26, 2026
2/3 vote
SUMMARY
Requires the Air Resources Board (ARB), subject to appropriation, to expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support for a regional network of air quality incident response centers (AQIRCs) operated by local air districts in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level.
Senate Amendments
Add coauthors and make non-substantive changes.
Governor's Veto Message
This bill would require (ARB) to expand its incident air monitoring program.
While I share the author's goal of expanding emergency air monitoring, the proposed program requires significant resources not included in this year's budget.
In partnership with the Legislature this year, my administration has enacted a balanced budget that recognizes the challenging fiscal landscape our state faces while maintaining our commitment to working families and our most vulnerable communities. With significant fiscal pressures and the federal government's hostile economic policies, it is vital that we remain disciplined when considering bills with significant fiscal implications that are not included in the budget, such as this measure.
COMMENTS
The Palisades and Eaton Fires burned 23,700 and 14,000 acres, respectively. The University of California – Los Angeles' Anderson School of Management estimates that the economic impacts of the wildfires could range between $76 billion and $131 billion, with insured losses estimated up to $45 billion. The impact on local businesses and employees in the affected areas is an estimated $297 million.
On top of the economic impacts, wildfires are devastating to public health. Wildfire smoke poses a significant public health threat, particularly due to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems and exacerbate existing health conditions. It can travel deep into the lungs and may even enter the bloodstream. For urban wildfires, air toxics are a concern as smoke and ash from homes and businesses can contain asbestos, metals, and other pollutants of concern.
Wildfires are not the only health-impacting events requiring localized air monitoring. In November 2023, a fire at a historic hangar at the former Tustin Air Base led to a public health emergency due to the presence of asbestos in debris and ash samples collected near the hangar. The smoke and debris also tested positive for heavy metals, including lead, arsenic and nickel. The city of Tustin declared a local state of emergency, and the Orange County Board of
Supervisors declared a county-wide state of emergency. The cleanup costs exceeded $54 million. A similar event also took place in January 2025, when a fire erupted at the Moss Landing Power Plant, a large battery storage facility, located south of San Francisco. The incident led to evacuation orders for about 1,200 nearby residents. About 80% of the structure and its batteries were destroyed in the fire. After burning through the night, emergency officials declared the fire a local emergency.
These events highlight the critical need for enhanced localized air monitoring response to emergency events. This bill is intended to provide timely information on existing levels of potentially dangerous air pollutants emitted as a result of wildfires and other disasters or emergencies to increase public awareness and inform health and emergency response agencies. This information will help improve emergency preparedness and response, protect public health, and strengthen statewide and local air quality management.
According to the Author
California has experienced numerous disasters in recent years that have threatened air quality and public health. Expanding California's emergency air monitoring capacity is essential to protect public health and ensure informed decision-making during disasters. AB 2349 would strengthen California's emergency air monitoring capacity and support coordinated state and local responses during air quality emergencies.
Arguments in Support
According to sponsor South Coast Air Quality Management District, California has experienced numerous disasters in recent years that have threatened air quality and public health, including the Eaton and Palisades Fires, Moss Landing and Central Coast Battery Fires, ExxonMobil explosion, Aliso Canyon gas leak, Tustin Hangar Fire, and other incidents. These incidents highlight the urgent need to expand and modernize emergency air monitoring and response capabilities, including providing timely information to the public. Further, there is a critical need for training of state and local air district staff on the Incident Command System (ICS) as well as advanced emergency preparedness and coordination with first responders, local government, and public health agencies. AB 2349 would improve California's ability to monitor and respond to air pollution during disasters by providing timely information on potentially dangerous air pollutants released during wildfires and other emergencies. The program would strengthen emergency preparedness and public health protection.
Arguments in Opposition
None received.
FISCAL COMMENTS
According to the Senate Appropriations Committee:
- ARB estimates ongoing costs of approximately $8.8 million in fiscal year 2027-28 and $5.7 million annually thereafter (General Fund) to establish, equip, and maintain AQIRCs with portable equipment, rapid response trailers, and contracts for laboratory analysis; to create advanced data collection, interpretation, and visualization platforms to strengthen centralized emergency response systems; to purchase and maintain equipment; to conduct real-time prediction modeling and assessment of hazardous air pollutant dispersion during incidents; to coordinate with state and local agencies to provide unified command; to carry out various enforcement-related tasks; to conduct rulemaking activities; to conduct community engagement; and to carry out other tasks.
- By expanding the duties of an air district, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. Costs incurred by an air district would potentially be reimbursable by the state, subject to a determination by the Commission on State Mandates (General Fund). However, the bill specifies that ARB and each air district is responsible for operating an AQIRC and performing other duties set forth in this bill only to the extent the Legislature provides funding for those purposes.
VOTES
ASM NATURAL RESOURCES: 14-0-0
YES: Bryan, Ellis, Alanis, Connolly, Garcia, Haney, Hoover, Kalra, Macedo, Boerner, Pellerin, Schultz, Wicks, Zbur
ASM APPROPRIATIONS: 15-0-0
YES: Wicks, Hoover, Aguiar-Curry, Calderon, Caloza, Dixon, Fong, Mark González, Krell, Pacheco, Pellerin, Sharp-Collins, Solache, Ta, Tangipa
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 78-0-2
YES: Addis, Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Alanis, Alvarez, Arambula, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bauer-Kahan, Bennett, Berman, Boerner, Bonta, Bryan, Calderon, Caloza, Carrillo, Castillo, Chen, Connolly, Davies, DeMaio, Dixon, Elhawary, Ellis, Flora, Fong, Gabriel, Gallagher, Garcia, Gipson, Jeff Gonzalez, Mark González, Hadwick, Haney, Harabedian, Hart, Hoover, Irwin, Jackson, Johnson, Kalra, Krell, Lackey, Lee, Lowenthal, Macedo, McKinnor, Nguyen, Ortega, Pacheco, Papan, Patel, Patterson, Pellerin, Petrie-Norris, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, Ransom, Michelle Rodriguez, Rogers, Blanca Rubio, Sanchez, Schiavo, Schultz, Sharp-Collins, Solache, Soria, Stefani, Ta, Tangipa, Valencia, Wallis, Ward, Wicks, Wilson, Zbur, Rivas
ABS, ABST OR NV: Muratsuchi, Celeste Rodriguez
SENATE FLOOR: 39-0-1
YES: Allen, Alvarado-Gil, Archuleta, Arreguín, Ashby, Becker, Blakespear, Cabaldon, Caballero, Cervantes, Choi, Cortese, Dahle, Durazo, Gonzalez, Grayson, Grove, Hurtado, Jones, Laird, Limón, McGuire, McNerney, Menjivar, Niello, Ochoa Bogh, Padilla, Pérez, Richardson, Rubio, Seyarto, Smallwood-Cuevas, Stern, Strickland, Umberg, Valladares, Wahab, Weber Pierson, Wiener
ABS, ABST OR NV: Reyes
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 77-0-2
YES: Addis, Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Alanis, Alvarez, Arambula, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bauer-Kahan, Bennett, Berman, Boerner, Bonta, Bryan, Calderon, Caloza, Carrillo, Castillo, Chen, Connolly, Davies, DeMaio, Dixon, Elhawary, Flora, Fong, Gabriel, Garcia, Gipson, Jeff Gonzalez, Mark González, Hadwick, Haney, Harabedian, Hart, Hoover, Irwin, Jackson, Johnson, Kalra, Krell, Lackey, Lee, Lowenthal, Macedo, Muratsuchi, Nguyen, Ortega, Pacheco, Papan, Patel, Patterson, Pellerin, Petrie-Norris, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, Ransom, Celeste Rodriguez, Michelle Rodriguez, Rogers, Blanca Rubio, Sanchez, Schiavo, Schultz, Sharp-Collins, Solache, Soria, Stefani, Ta, Tangipa, Valencia, Wallis, Ward, Wicks, Wilson, Zbur, Rivas
ABS, ABST OR NV: Ellis, McKinnor
UPDATED
VERSION: August 26, 2026
CONSULTANT: Lawrence Lingbloom / NAT. RES. / (916) 319-2092 FN: 0004611
CONCURRENCE IN SENATE AMENDMENTS
CSA1 Bill Id:AB 2349
Author:(Solache)
As Amended Ver:July 1, 2026
Majority vote
SUMMARY
Requires the Air Resources Board (ARB), subject to appropriation, to expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support for a regional network of air quality incident response centers (AQIRCs) operated by local air districts in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level.
Senate Amendments
Add coauthors and make non-substantive changes.
COMMENTS
The Palisades and Eaton Fires burned 23,700 and 14,000 acres, respectively. The University of California – Los Angeles' Anderson School of Management estimates that the economic impacts of the wildfires could range between $76 billion and $131 billion, with insured losses estimated up to $45 billion. The impact on local businesses and employees in the affected areas is an estimated $297 million.
On top of the economic impacts, wildfires are devastating to public health. Wildfire smoke poses a significant public health threat, particularly due to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems and exacerbate existing health conditions. It can travel deep into the lungs and may even enter the bloodstream. For urban wildfires, air toxics are a concern as smoke and ash from homes and businesses can contain asbestos, metals, and other pollutants of concern.
Wildfires are not the only health-impacting events requiring localized air monitoring. In November 2023, a fire at a historic hangar at the former Tustin Air Base led to a public health emergency due to the presence of asbestos in debris and ash samples collected near the hangar. The smoke and debris also tested positive for heavy metals, including lead, arsenic and nickel. The city of Tustin declared a local state of emergency, and the Orange County Board of Supervisors declared a county-wide state of emergency. The cleanup costs exceeded $54 million. A similar event also took place in January 2025, when a fire erupted at the Moss Landing Power Plant, a large battery storage facility, located south of San Francisco. The incident led to evacuation orders for about 1,200 nearby residents. About 80% of the structure and its batteries were destroyed in the fire. After burning through the night, emergency officials declared the fire a local emergency.
These events highlight the critical need for enhanced localized air monitoring response to emergency events. This bill is intended to provide timely information on existing levels of potentially dangerous air pollutants emitted as a result of wildfires and other disasters or emergencies to increase public awareness and inform health and emergency response agencies. This information will help improve emergency preparedness and response, protect public health, and strengthen statewide and local air quality management.
According to the Author
California has experienced numerous disasters in recent years that have threatened air quality and public health. Expanding California's emergency air monitoring capacity is essential to protect public health and ensure informed decision-making during disasters. AB 2349 would strengthen California's emergency air monitoring capacity and support coordinated state and local responses during air quality emergencies.
Arguments in Support
According to sponsor South Coast Air Quality Management District, California has experienced numerous disasters in recent years that have threatened air quality and public health, including the Eaton and Palisades Fires, Moss Landing and Central Coast Battery Fires, ExxonMobil explosion, Aliso Canyon gas leak, Tustin Hangar Fire, and other incidents. These incidents highlight the urgent need to expand and modernize emergency air monitoring and response capabilities, including providing timely information to the public. Further, there is a critical need for training of state and local air district staff on the Incident Command System (ICS) as well as advanced emergency preparedness and coordination with first responders, local government, and public health agencies. AB 2349 would improve California's ability to monitor and respond to air pollution during disasters by providing timely information on potentially dangerous air pollutants released during wildfires and other emergencies. The program would strengthen emergency preparedness and public health protection.
Arguments in Opposition
None received.
FISCAL COMMENTS
According to the Senate Appropriations Committee:
- ARB estimates ongoing costs of approximately $8.8 million in fiscal year 2027-28 and $5.7 million annually thereafter (General Fund) to establish, equip, and maintain AQIRCs with portable equipment, rapid response trailers, and contracts for laboratory analysis; to create advanced data collection, interpretation, and visualization platforms to strengthen centralized emergency response systems; to purchase and maintain equipment; to conduct real-time prediction modeling and assessment of hazardous air pollutant dispersion during incidents; to coordinate with state and local agencies to provide unified command; to carry out various enforcement-related tasks; to conduct rulemaking activities; to conduct community engagement; and to carry out other tasks.
- By expanding the duties of an air district, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. Costs incurred by an air district would potentially be reimbursable by the state, subject to a determination by the Commission on State Mandates (General Fund). However, the bill specifies that ARB and each air district is responsible for operating an AQIRC and performing other duties set forth in this bill only to the extent the Legislature provides funding for those purposes.
VOTES:
ASM NATURAL RESOURCES: 14-0-0
YES: Bryan, Ellis, Alanis, Connolly, Garcia, Haney, Hoover, Kalra, Macedo, Boerner, Pellerin, Schultz, Wicks, Zbur
ASM APPROPRIATIONS: 15-0-0
YES: Wicks, Hoover, Aguiar-Curry, Calderon, Caloza, Dixon, Fong, Mark González, Krell, Pacheco, Pellerin, Sharp-Collins, Solache, Ta, Tangipa
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 78-0-2
YES: Addis, Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Alanis, Alvarez, Arambula, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bauer-Kahan, Bennett, Berman, Boerner, Bonta, Bryan, Calderon, Caloza, Carrillo, Castillo, Chen, Connolly, Davies, DeMaio, Dixon, Elhawary, Ellis, Flora, Fong, Gabriel, Gallagher, Garcia, Gipson, Jeff Gonzalez, Mark González, Hadwick, Haney, Harabedian, Hart, Hoover, Irwin, Jackson, Johnson, Kalra, Krell, Lackey, Lee, Lowenthal, Macedo, McKinnor, Nguyen, Ortega, Pacheco, Papan, Patel, Patterson, Pellerin, Petrie-Norris, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, Ransom, Michelle Rodriguez, Rogers, Blanca Rubio, Sanchez, Schiavo, Schultz, Sharp-Collins, Solache, Soria, Stefani, Ta, Tangipa, Valencia, Wallis, Ward, Wicks, Wilson, Zbur, Rivas
ABS, ABST OR NV: Muratsuchi, Celeste Rodriguez
SENATE FLOOR: 39-0-1
YES: Allen, Alvarado-Gil, Archuleta, Arreguín, Ashby, Becker, Blakespear, Cabaldon, Caballero, Cervantes, Choi, Cortese, Dahle, Durazo, Gonzalez, Grayson, Grove, Hurtado, Jones, Laird, Limón, McGuire, McNerney, Menjivar, Niello, Ochoa Bogh, Padilla, Pérez, Richardson, Rubio, Seyarto, Smallwood-Cuevas, Stern, Strickland, Umberg, Valladares, Wahab, Weber Pierson, Wiener
ABS, ABST OR NV: Reyes
UPDATED
VERSION: July 1, 2026
CONSULTANT: Lawrence Lingbloom / NAT. RES. / (916) 319-2092 FN: 0003934
SENATE RULES COMMITTEE Office of Senate Floor Analyses (916) 651-4171 | AB 2349 |
THIRD READING
Bill No: AB 2349
Author: Solache (D), et al.
Amended: 7/1/26 in Senate
Vote: 21
SENATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMITTEE: 7-0, 6/24/26
AYES: Blakespear, Valladares, Allen, Dahle, Gonzalez, Hurtado, Menjivar
SENATE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE: 7-0, 8/13/26
AYES: Cervantes, Seyarto, Cabaldon, Dahle, Grayson, Richardson, Wahab
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 78-0, 5/26/26 - See last page for vote
SUBJECT: State Air Resources Board: regional air quality incident response program
SOURCE: South Coast Air Quality Management District
DIGEST:
This bill requires the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support for a regional network of air quality incident response centers (AQIRCs) operated by local air districts in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level.
ANALYSIS:
Existing federal law:
- Sets, pursuant to the federal Clean Air Act (CAA) and its implementing regulations, National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for six criteria pollutants, designate air basins that do not achieve NAAQS as nonattainment, and require states with nonattainment areas to submit a State Implementation Plan (SIP) detailing how they will achieve compliance with NAAQS. (Ti42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.)
Existing state law:
- Establishes CARB as the air pollution control agency in California and requires the ARB, among other things, to control emissions from a wide array of mobile sources and coordinate with local air districts to control emissions from stationary sources in order to implement the CAA. (Health and Safety Code Section (HSC) 39000 et seq.)
- Requires CARB to (1) divide the state into air basins based upon similar meteorological and geographic conditions, and consideration for political boundary lines whenever practicable, and (2) adopt air quality standards for each air basin in consideration of the public health, safety, and welfare. (HSC 39606)
- Requires, subject to the powers and duties of the CARB, air districts to adopt and enforce rules and regulations to achieve and maintain the state and federal air quality standards in all areas affected by emission sources under their jurisdiction, and to enforce all applicable provisions of state and federal law. (HSC 40001)
- Requires air districts to develop attainment plans detailing how they will attain and maintain state air quality standards, and submit those plans to CARB. (HSC 40910 et seq.)
This bill:
- Requires CARB, subject to appropriation, to expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support for a regional network of air quality incident response centers (AQIRCs) operated by districts in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level.
- Requires CARB and the districts to jointly select locations to establish AQIRCs throughout the state, including at least one AQIRC in the south coast district. Requires CARB to coordinate with, and provide funding to, districts.
- Requires CARB and each district that operates an AQIRC to coordinate to provide emergency air monitoring response for disasters or other crises impacting air quality and public health.
- Authorizes funding for specified purposes.
- Requires, as part of the operation of an AQIRC, air quality monitoring to be conducted for targeted air contaminants of concern, in coordination with unified command centers, joint information centers, other state agencies, and other entities, as appropriate.
Background
California fires and air quality. The Palisades and Eaton Fires burned 23,700 and 14,000 acres, respectively. The University of California – Los Angeles’ Anderson School of Management estimates that the economic impacts of the wildfires could range between $76 billion and $131 billion, with insured losses estimated up to $45 billion. The impact on local businesses and employees in the affected areas is an estimated $297 million.
On top of the economic impacts, wildfires are devastating to public health. Wildfire smoke poses a significant public health threat, particularly due to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems and exacerbate existing health conditions. It can travel deep into the lungs and may even enter the bloodstream. For urban wildfires, air toxics are a concern as smoke and ash from homes and businesses can contain asbestos, metals, and other pollutants of concern.
Wildfires are not the only health-impacting events requiring localized air monitoring. In November 2023, a fire at a historic hangar at the former Tustin Air Base led to a public health emergency due to the presence of asbestos in debris and ash samples collected near the hangar. The smoke and debris also tested positive for heavy metals, including lead, arsenic and nickel. The city of Tustin declared a local state of emergency, and the Orange County Board of Supervisors declared a county-wide state of emergency. The cleanup costs exceeded $54 million. A similar event also took place in January 2025, when a fire erupted at the Moss Landing Power Plant, a large battery storage facility, located south of San Francisco. The incident led to evacuation orders for about 1,200 nearby residents. About 80% of the structure and its batteries were destroyed in the fire. After burning through the night, emergency officials declared the fire a local emergency.
These events highlight the critical need for enhanced localized air monitoring response to emergency events. This bill is intended to provide timely information on existing levels of potentially dangerous air pollutants emitted as a result of wildfires and other disasters or emergencies to increase public awareness and inform health and emergency response agencies. This information will help improve emergency preparedness and response, protect public health, and strengthen statewide and local air quality management.
Comments
Purpose of Bill. According to the author, “California has experienced numerous disasters in recent years that have threatened air quality and public health. Expanding California’s emergency air monitoring capacity is essential to protect public health and ensure informed decision-making during disasters. AB 2349 would strengthen California's emergency air monitoring capacity and support coordinated state and local responses during air quality emergencies.”
FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: Yes Local: Yes
According to the Senate Appropriations Committee:
- CARB estimates ongoing costs of approximately $8.8 million in fiscal year 2027-28 and $5.7 million annually thereafter (General Fund) to establish, equip, and maintain AQIRCs with portable equipment, rapid response trailers, and contracts for laboratory analysis; to create advanced data collection, interpretation, and visualization platforms to strengthen centralized emergency response systems; to purchase and maintain equipment; to conduct real-time prediction modeling and assessment of hazardous air pollutant dispersion during incidents; to coordinate with state and local agencies to provide unified command; to carry out various enforcement-related tasks; to conduct rulemaking activities; to conduct community engagement; and to carry out other tasks.
- By expanding the duties of an air district, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. Costs incurred by an air district would potentially be reimbursable by the state, subject to a determination by the Commission on State Mandates (General Fund). However, the bill specifies that CARB and each air district is responsible for operating an AQIRC and performing other duties set forth in this bill only to the extent the Legislature provides funding for those purposes.
SUPPORT: (Verified 8/13/2026)
South Coast Air Quality Management District (Source)
Breathe California of Los Angeles County (breathe La)
California Air Pollution Control Officers Association
California Contract Cities Association
City of Indian Wells
Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson, City of Riverside
Orange County Fire Authority
OPPOSITION: (Verified 8/13/2026)
None received
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 78-0, 5/26/26
AYES: Addis, Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Alanis, Alvarez, Arambula, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bauer-Kahan, Bennett, Berman, Boerner, Bonta, Bryan, Calderon, Caloza, Carrillo, Castillo, Chen, Connolly, Davies, DeMaio, Dixon, Elhawary, Ellis, Flora, Fong, Gabriel, Gallagher, Garcia, Gipson, Jeff Gonzalez, Mark González, Hadwick, Haney, Harabedian, Hart, Hoover, Irwin, Jackson, Johnson, Kalra, Krell, Lackey, Lee, Lowenthal, Macedo, McKinnor, Nguyen, Ortega, Pacheco, Papan, Patel, Patterson, Pellerin, Petrie-Norris, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, Ransom, Michelle Rodriguez, Rogers, Blanca Rubio, Sanchez, Schiavo, Schultz, Sharp-Collins, Solache, Soria, Stefani, Ta, Tangipa, Valencia, Wallis, Ward, Wicks, Wilson, Zbur, Rivas
NO VOTE RECORDED: Muratsuchi, Celeste Rodriguez
Prepared by: Heather Walters / E.Q. / (916) 651-4108
8/15/26 12:30:53
**** END ****
SENATE COMMITTEE ON
Senator Sabrina Cervantes, Chair
2025 - 2026 Regular Session
AB 2349 (Solache) - State Air Resources Board: regional air quality incident response program
Version: | Policy Vote: |
Urgency: | Mandate: |
Hearing Date: | Consultant: |
Bill Summary:
This bill would require the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support for a regional network of air quality incident response centers (AQIRCs) operated by local air districts in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level.
Fiscal Impact:
- CARB estimates ongoing costs of approximately $8.8 million in fiscal year 2027-28 and $5.7 million annually thereafter (General Fund) to establish, equip, and maintain AQIRCs with portable equipment, rapid response trailers, and contracts for laboratory analysis; to create advanced data collection, interpretation, and visualization platforms to strengthen centralized emergency response systems; to purchase and maintain equipment; to conduct real-time prediction modeling and assessment of hazardous air pollutant dispersion during incidents; to coordinate with state and local agencies to provide unified command; to carry out various enforcement-related tasks; to conduct rulemaking activities; to conduct community engagement; and to carry out other tasks.
- By expanding the duties of an air district, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. Costs incurred by an air district would potentially be reimbursable by the state, subject to a determination by the Commission on State Mandates (General Fund). However, the bill specifies that CARB and each air district is responsible for operating an AQIRC and performing other duties set forth in this bill only to the extent the Legislature provides funding for those purposes.
Background:
The Palisades and Eaton Fires burned 23,700 and 14,000 acres respectively, with UCLA's Anderson School of Management estimating total economic impacts between $76 billion and $131 billion, insured losses up to $45 billion, and roughly $297 million in impacts to local businesses and employees in the affected areas. Beyond the economic toll, wildfire smoke is a serious public health threat, chiefly through fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which travels deep into the lungs and may enter the bloodstream, causing respiratory and cardiovascular problems and worsening existing conditions. Urban wildfires raise the additional concern of air toxics, since smoke and ash from burned homes and businesses can carry asbestos, metals, and other pollutants.
Wildfires are not the only events requiring localized monitoring. A November 2023 fire at a historic hangar at the former Tustin Air Base created a public health emergency when debris and ash samples near the site tested positive for asbestos along with heavy metals including lead, arsenic, and nickel; the city declared a local emergency, the Orange County Board of Supervisors declared a county-wide emergency, and cleanup costs exceeded $54 million. In January 2025, a fire at the Moss Landing Power Plant, a large battery storage facility south of San Francisco, destroyed roughly 80% of the structure and its batteries, burned overnight, prompted evacuation orders for about 1,200 residents, and was declared a local emergency.
These incidents underscore the need for stronger localized air monitoring during emergencies. The bill is intended to deliver timely information on levels of potentially dangerous air pollutants released by wildfires and other disasters, raising public awareness, informing health and emergency response agencies, and thereby improving emergency preparedness and response, protecting public health, and strengthening statewide and local air quality management.
Proposed Law:
This bill would:
- Require CARB, subject to appropriation, to expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support for a regional network of AQIRCs operated by districts in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level.
- Require CARB and the districts to jointly select locations to establish AQIRCs throughout the state, including at least one AQIRC in the south coast district. Require CARB to coordinate with, and provide funding to, districts.
- Require CARB and each district that operates an AQIRC to coordinate to provide emergency air monitoring response for disasters or other crises impacting air quality and public health.
- Authorize funding for specified purposes.
- Require, as part of the operation of an AQIRC, air quality monitoring to be conducted for targeted air contaminants of concern, in coordination with unified command centers, joint information centers, other state agencies, and other entities, as appropriate.
Related Legislation:
AB 1106 (Rodriguez, 2025), was nearly identical to this bill. It was held in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
-- END --
SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Senator Blakespear, Chair
2025 - 2026 Regular
Bill No: AB 2349
Author: | Solache | ||
Version: | 2/19/2026 | Hearing Date: | 6/24/2026 |
Urgency: | No | Fiscal: | Yes |
Consultant: | Heather Walters | ||
SUBJECT: State Air Resources Board: regional air quality incident response program
DIGEST: This bill requires the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support for a regional network of air quality incident response centers (AQIRCs) operated by local air districts in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level
ANALYSIS:
Existing federal law:
- Sets, pursuant to the federal Clean Air Act (CAA) and its implementing regulations, National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for six criteria pollutants, designate air basins that do not achieve NAAQS as nonattainment, and require states with nonattainment areas to submit a State Implementation Plan (SIP) detailing how they will achieve compliance with NAAQS. (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.)
Existing state law:
- Establishes CARB as the air pollution control agency in California and requires the ARB, among other things, to control emissions from a wide array of mobile sources and coordinate with local air districts to control emissions from stationary sources in order to implement the CAA. (Health and Safety Code (HSC) 39000 et seq.)
- Requires CARB to (1) divide the state into air basins based upon similar meteorological and geographic conditions, and consideration for political boundary lines whenever practicable, and (2) adopt air quality standards for each air basin in consideration of the public health, safety, and welfare. (HSC 39606)
- Requires, subject to the powers and duties of the CARB, air districts to adopt and enforce rules and regulations to achieve and maintain the state and federal air quality standards in all areas affected by emission sources under their jurisdiction, and to enforce all applicable provisions of state and federal law. (HSC 40001)
- Requires air districts to develop attainment plans detailing how they will attain and maintain state air quality standards, and submit those plans to CARB. (HSC 40910 et seq.)
This bill:
- Requires CARB, subject to appropriation, to expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support for a regional network of air quality incident response centers (AQIRCs) operated by districts in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level.
- Requires CARB and the districts to jointly select locations to establish AQIRCs throughout the state, including at least one AQIRC in the south coast district. Requires CARB to coordinate with, and provide funding to, districts.
- Requires CARB and each district that operates an AQIRC to coordinate to provide emergency air monitoring response for disasters or other crises impacting air quality and public health.
- Authorizes funding for specified purposes.
- Requires, as part of the operation of an AQIRC, air quality monitoring to be conducted for targeted air contaminants of concern, in coordination with unified command centers, joint information centers, other state agencies, and other entities, as appropriate.
Background
- California fires and air quality. The Palisades and Eaton Fires burned 23,700 and 14,000 acres, respectively. The University of California – Los Angeles’ Anderson School of Management estimates that the economic impacts of the wildfires could range between $76 billion and $131 billion, with insured losses estimated up to $45 billion. The impact on local businesses and employees in the affected areas is an estimated $297 million.
On top of the economic impacts, wildfires are devastating to public health. Wildfire smoke poses a significant public health threat, particularly due to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems and exacerbate existing health conditions. It can travel deep into the lungs and may even enter the bloodstream. For urban wildfires, air toxics are a concern as smoke and ash from homes and businesses can contain asbestos, metals, and other pollutants of concern.
Wildfires are not the only health-impacting events requiring localized air monitoring. In November 2023, a fire at a historic hangar at the former Tustin Air Base led to a public health emergency due to the presence of asbestos in debris and ash samples collected near the hangar. The smoke and debris also tested positive for heavy metals, including lead, arsenic and nickel. The city of Tustin declared a local state of emergency, and the Orange County Board of Supervisors declared a county-wide state of emergency. The cleanup costs exceeded $54 million. A similar event also took place in January 2025, when a fire erupted at the Moss Landing Power Plant, a large battery storage facility, located south of San Francisco. The incident led to evacuation orders for about 1,200 nearby residents. About 80% of the structure and its batteries were destroyed in the fire. After burning through the night, emergency officials declared the fire a local emergency.
These events highlight the critical need for enhanced localized air monitoring response to emergency events. This bill is intended to provide timely information on existing levels of potentially dangerous air pollutants emitted as a result of wildfires and other disasters or emergencies to increase public awareness and inform health and emergency response agencies. This information will help improve emergency preparedness and response, protect public health, and strengthen statewide and local air quality management.
Comments
- Purpose of Bill. According to the author, “California has experienced numerous disasters in recent years that have threatened air quality and public health. Expanding California’s emergency air monitoring capacity is essential to protect public health and ensure informed decision-making during disasters. AB 2349 would strengthen California's emergency air monitoring capacity and support coordinated state and local responses during air quality emergencies.”
Related/Prior Legislation
AB 1106 (Rodriguez, 2025), was nearly identical to this bill. It was held in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
SOURCE:
South Coast Air Quality Management District
SUPPORT:
California Air Pollution Control Officers Association
California Contract Cities Association
Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson, City of Riverside
South Coast Air Quality Management District
OPPOSITION:
None received
-- END --
ASSEMBLY THIRD READING
ATR Bill Id:AB 2349
Author:(Solache)
As Introduced Ver:February 19, 2026
Majority vote
SUMMARY
Requires the Air Resources Board (ARB), subject to appropriation, to expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support for a regional network of air quality incident response centers (AQIRCs) operated by local air districts in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level.
Major Provisions
- Requires ARB, subject to appropriation, to expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support for a regional network of AQIRCs operated by districts in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level.
- Requires ARB and the districts to jointly select locations to establish AQIRCs throughout the state, including at least one AQIRC in the south coast district. Requires ARB to coordinate with, and provide funding to, districts.
- Requires ARB and each district that operates an AQIRC to coordinate to provide emergency air monitoring response for disasters or other crises impacting air quality and public health.
- Authorizes funding for specified purposes.
- Requires, as part of the operation of an AQIRC, air quality monitoring to be conducted for targeted air contaminants of concern, in coordination with unified command centers, joint information centers, other state agencies, and other entities, as appropriate.
COMMENTS
The Palisades and Eaton Fires burned 23,700 and 14,000 acres, respectively. The University of California – Los Angeles’ Anderson School of Management estimates that the economic impacts of the wildfires could range between $76 billion and $131 billion, with insured losses estimated up to $45 billion. The impact on local businesses and employees in the affected areas is an estimated $297 million.
On top of the economic impacts, wildfires are devastating to public health. Wildfire smoke poses a significant public health threat, particularly due to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems and exacerbate existing health conditions. It can travel deep into the lungs and may even enter the bloodstream. For urban wildfires, air toxics are a concern as smoke and ash from homes and businesses can contain asbestos, metals, and other pollutants of concern.
Wildfires are not the only health-impacting events requiring localized air monitoring. In November 2023, a fire at a historic hangar at the former Tustin Air Base led to a public health emergency due to the presence of asbestos in debris and ash samples collected near the hangar. The smoke and debris also tested positive for heavy metals, including lead, arsenic and nickel. The city of Tustin declared a local state of emergency, and the Orange County Board of Supervisors declared a county-wide state of emergency. The cleanup costs exceeded $54 million. A similar event also took place in January 2025, when a fire erupted at the Moss Landing Power Plant, a large battery storage facility, located south of San Francisco. The incident led to evacuation orders for about 1,200 nearby residents. About 80% of the structure and its batteries were destroyed in the fire. After burning through the night, emergency officials declared the fire a local emergency.
These events highlight the critical need for enhanced localized air monitoring response to emergency events. This bill is intended to provide timely information on existing levels of potentially dangerous air pollutants emitted as a result of wildfires and other disasters or emergencies to increase public awareness and inform health and emergency response agencies. This information will help improve emergency preparedness and response, protect public health, and strengthen statewide and local air quality management.
According to the Author
California has experienced numerous disasters in recent years that have threatened air quality and public health. Expanding California's emergency air monitoring capacity is essential to protect public health and ensure informed decision-making during disasters. AB 2349 would strengthen California's emergency air monitoring capacity and support coordinated state and local responses during air quality emergencies.
Arguments in Support
According to sponsor South Coast Air Quality Management District, California has experienced numerous disasters in recent years that have threatened air quality and public health, including the Eaton and Palisades Fires, Moss Landing and Central Coast Battery Fires, ExxonMobil explosion, Aliso Canyon gas leak, Tustin Hangar Fire, and other incidents. These incidents highlight the urgent need to expand and modernize emergency air monitoring and response capabilities, including providing timely information to the public. Further, there is a critical need for training of state and local air district staff on the Incident Command System (ICS) as well as advanced emergency preparedness and coordination with first responders, local government, and public health agencies. AB 2349 would improve California’s ability to monitor and respond to air pollution during disasters by providing timely information on potentially dangerous air pollutants released during wildfires and other emergencies. The program would strengthen emergency preparedness and public health protection.
Arguments in Opposition
None received.
FISCAL COMMENTS
According to the Assembly Appropriations Committee:
- ARB will incur significant ongoing costs to implement the requirements of this bill (General Fund). ARB estimates costs of approximately $8.8 million in fiscal year (FY) 2027-28 and $5.7 million in FY 2028-29 and ongoing for about 11 new positions, contract funds, and equipment costs. Implementation costs include, among many other things, establishing, equipping, and maintaining AQIRCs with portable equipment, rapid response trailers, and contacts for laboratory analysis; creating advanced data collection, interpretation, and visualization platforms to strengthen centralized emergency response systems; purchasing and maintaining equipment; conducting real-time prediction modeling and assessment of hazardous air pollutant dispersion during incidents; coordinating with state and local agencies to provide unified command; various enforcement-related tasks; rulemaking activities; community engagement; and other tasks.
- By expanding the duties of an air district, this bill imposes a state-mandated local program. Costs incurred by an air district are potentially reimbursable by the state, subject to a determination by the Commission on State Mandates (General Fund). However, the bill specifies that ARB and each air district is responsible for operating an AQIRC and performing other duties set forth in this bill only to the extent the Legislature provides funding for those purposes.
The author has submitted a budget request for $5 million for implementation of this bill, including equipment and facilities, air monitoring and data management, technical staffing and regional coordination, and training programs to ensure preparedness for wildfires and other disasters. In addition to the $5 million, the author is requesting "continued prioritization of funding for this program through an ongoing appropriation."
VOTES
ASM NATURAL RESOURCES: 14-0-0
YES: Bryan, Ellis, Alanis, Connolly, Garcia, Haney, Hoover, Kalra, Macedo, Boerner, Pellerin, Schultz, Wicks, Zbur
ASM APPROPRIATIONS: 15-0-0
YES: Wicks, Hoover, Aguiar-Curry, Calderon, Caloza, Dixon, Fong, Mark González, Krell, Pacheco, Pellerin, Sharp-Collins, Solache, Ta, Tangipa
UPDATED
VERSION: February 19, 2026
CONSULTANT: Lawrence Lingbloom / NAT. RES. / (916) 319-2092 FN: 0002726
Date of Hearing: April 22, 2026
ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
Buffy Wicks, Chair
ABPCA Bill Id:AB 2349
Author:(Solache) – As Introduced Ver:February 19, 2026
Policy Committee: | Natural Resources | Vote: | 14 - 0 |
|
| ||
|
|
Urgency: No State Mandated Local Program: Yes Reimbursable: Yes
SUMMARY:
This bill, subject to appropriation, requires the Air Resources Board (ARB) to expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support for a regional network of air quality incident response centers (AQIRCs) operated by local air districts to facilitate local and regional emergency air monitoring response.
In addition, this bill:
1) Requires ARB and air districts to jointly select each location throughout the state where an AQIRC will be established by ARB or a district, including at least one AQIRC located in the south coast district and requires each entity be responsible for operating the AQIRC it establishes.
2) Requires an air district, before establishing an AQIRC within its jurisdiction, to coordinate with ARB and any other relevant air district to develop operational plans for the AQIRC.
3) Requires ARB and each air district that operates an AQIRC to coordinate to provide emergency air monitoring response for disasters or other crises impacting air quality and public health in the state, as determined by ARB and that air district and provides that ARB and each air district that operates an AQIRC is responsible for performing the duties set forth in this bill only to the extent funding is provided by the Legislature.
4) Authorizes funding made available by the Legislature for purposes of this bill to be used for numerous specified purposes, such as funding to plan, create, equip, and maintain AQIRCs, including for the acquisition of monitoring equipment and systems, vehicles, and other necessary equipment, and facilities, as well as funding of staffing resources, including regional emergency response coordinators and technical staff at air districts.
5) Provides that as part of the operation of an AQIRC, air quality monitoring may be conducted for targeted air contaminants of concern, as identified by ARB or the air district operating that AQIRC, during disaster or emergency situations and during the recovery period from a disaster or emergency to aid impacted communities, and that the monitoring may be conducted in coordination with unified command centers, joint information centers, other state agencies, local public health agencies, and other entities, as appropriate.
FISCAL EFFECT:
1) ARB will incur significant ongoing costs to implement the requirements of this bill (General Fund). ARB estimates costs of approximately $8.8 million in fiscal year (FY) 2027-28 and $5.7 million in FY 2028-29 and ongoing for about 11 new positions, contract funds, and equipment costs. Implementation costs include, among many other things, establishing, equipping, and maintaining AQIRCs with portable equipment, rapid response trailers, and contacts for laboratory analysis; creating advanced data collection, interpretation, and visualization platforms to strengthen centralized emergency response systems; purchasing and maintaining equipment; conducting real-time prediction modeling and assessment of hazardous air pollutant dispersion during incidents; coordinating with state and local agencies to provide unified command; various enforcement-related tasks; rulemaking activities; community engagement; and other tasks.
2) By expanding the duties of an air district, this bill imposes a state-mandated local program. Costs incurred by an air district are potentially reimbursable by the state, subject to a determination by the Commission on State Mandates (General Fund). However, the bill specifies that ARB and each air district is responsible for operating an AQIRC and performing other duties set forth in this bill only to the extent the Legislature provides funding for those purposes.
The Legislative Analyst’s Office recently warned of General Fund structural deficits of around $35 billion per year in the 2027-28 FY and ongoing.
The author has submitted a budget request for $5 million for implementation of this bill, including equipment and facilities, air monitoring and data management, technical staffing and regional coordination, and training programs to ensure preparedness for wildfires and other disasters. In addition to the $5 million, the author is requesting “continued prioritization of funding for this program through an ongoing appropriation.”
COMMENTS:
1) Purpose. According to the author:
California has experienced numerous disasters in recent years that have threatened air quality and public health. Expanding California’s emergency air monitoring capacity is essential to protect public health and ensure informed decision-making during disasters. AB 2349 would strengthen California's emergency air monitoring capacity and support coordinated state and local responses during air quality emergencies.
2) Background. Over the last several years, numerous catastrophic events affecting air quality and public safety have occurred throughout the state. The Palisades and Eaton fires burned 23,700 and 14,000 acres, respectively. The University of California, Los Angeles’ Anderson School of Management estimates that the economic impacts of the wildfires could range between $76 billion and $131 billion, with insured losses estimated up to $45 billion. On top of the economic impacts, wildfires are devastating to public health. Wildfire smoke poses a significant public health threat, particularly due to fine particulate matter, which can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems and exacerbate existing health conditions.
In November 2023, a fire at a historic hangar at the former Tustin Air Base led to a public health emergency due to the presence of asbestos in debris and ash samples collected near the hangar. SCAQMD provided air monitoring data to the City of Tustin, which supported the declaration of a local and countywide state of emergency. In January 2025, a fire that erupted at the Moss Landing Power Plant led to evacuation orders for about 1,200 nearby residents.
The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD), the sponsor of this bill, notes these incidents “highlight the urgent need to expand and modernize emergency air monitoring and response capabilities, including providing timely information to the public,” and that “there is a critical need for training of state and local air district staff on the Incident Command System (ICS) as well as advanced emergency preparedness and coordination with first responders, local government, and public health agencies.”
3) Related Legislation. AB 1106 (Michelle Rodriguez) of the current legislative session was similar to this bill and was held on this committee’s suspense file.
Analysis Prepared by: Nikita Koraddi / APPR. / (916) 319-2081
Date of Hearing: April 6, 2026
ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES
Isaac G. Bryan, Chair
ABPCA Bill Id:AB 2349 (
Author:Solache) – As Introduced Ver:February 19, 2026
SUBJECT: State Air Resources Board: regional air quality incident response program
SUMMARY: Requires the Air Resources Board (ARB), subject to appropriation, to expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support for a regional network of air quality incident response centers (AQIRCs) operated by local air districts in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level.
EXISTING LAW:
- The federal Clean Air Act (CAA) and its implementing regulations set National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for six criteria pollutants, designate air basins that do not achieve NAAQS as nonattainment, and require states with nonattainment areas to submit a State Implementation Plan (SIP) detailing how they will achieve compliance with NAAQS. (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.)
- Establishes ARB as the air pollution control agency in California and requires the ARB, among other things, to control emissions from a wide array of mobile sources and coordinate with local air districts to control emissions from stationary sources in order to implement the CAA. (Health and Safety Code (HSC) 39000 et seq.)
- Requires ARB to (1) divide the state into air basins based upon similar meteorological and geographic conditions, and consideration for political boundary lines whenever practicable, and (2) adopt air quality standards for each air basin in consideration of the public health, safety, and welfare. (HSC 39606)
- Requires, subject to the powers and duties of the ARB, air districts to adopt and enforce rules and regulations to achieve and maintain the state and federal air quality standards in all areas affected by emission sources under their jurisdiction, and to enforce all applicable provisions of state and federal law. (HSC 40001)
- Requires air districts to develop attainment plans detailing how they will attain and maintain state air quality standards, and submit those plans to ARB. (HSC 40910 et seq.)
THIS BILL:
- Requires ARB, subject to appropriation, to expand its incident air monitoring program to provide support for a regional network of AQIRCs operated by districts in order to facilitate emergency air monitoring response at the local and regional level.
- Requires ARB and the districts to jointly select locations to establish AQIRCs throughout the state, including at least one AQIRC in the south coast district. Requires ARB to coordinate with, and provide funding to, districts.
- Requires ARB and each district that operates an AQIRC to coordinate to provide emergency air monitoring response for disasters or other crises impacting air quality and public health.
- Authorizes funding for specified purposes.
- Requires, as part of the operation of an AQIRC, air quality monitoring to be conducted for targeted air contaminants of concern, in coordination with unified command centers, joint information centers, other state agencies, and other entities, as appropriate.
FISCAL EFFECT: Unknown
COMMENTS:
- Background. The Palisades and Eaton Fires burned 23,700 and 14,000 acres, respectively. The University of California – Los Angeles’ Anderson School of Management estimates that the economic impacts of the wildfires could range between $76 billion and $131 billion, with insured losses estimated up to $45 billion. The impact on local businesses and employees in the affected areas is an estimated $297 million.
On top of the economic impacts, wildfires are devastating to public health. Wildfire smoke poses a significant public health threat, particularly due to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems and exacerbate existing health conditions. It can travel deep into the lungs and may even enter the bloodstream. For urban wildfires, air toxics are a concern as smoke and ash from homes and businesses can contain asbestos, metals, and other pollutants of concern.
Wildfires are not the only health-impacting events requiring localized air monitoring. In November 2023, a fire at a historic hangar at the former Tustin Air Base led to a public health emergency due to the presence of asbestos in debris and ash samples collected near the hangar. The smoke and debris also tested positive for heavy metals, including lead, arsenic and nickel. The city of Tustin declared a local state of emergency, and the Orange County Board of Supervisors declared a county-wide state of emergency. The cleanup costs exceeded $54 million. A similar event also took place in January 2025, when a fire erupted at the Moss Landing Power Plant, a large battery storage facility, located south of San Francisco. The incident led to evacuation orders for about 1,200 nearby residents. About 80% of the structure and its batteries were destroyed in the fire. After burning through the night, emergency officials declared the fire a local emergency.
These events highlight the critical need for enhanced localized air monitoring response to emergency events. This bill is intended to provide timely information on existing levels of potentially dangerous air pollutants emitted as a result of wildfires and other disasters or emergencies to increase public awareness and inform health and emergency response agencies. This information will help improve emergency preparedness and response, protect public health, and strengthen statewide and local air quality management.
- Author’s statement:
California has experienced numerous disasters in recent years that have threatened air quality and public health. Expanding California’s emergency air monitoring capacity is essential to protect public health and ensure informed decision-making during disasters. AB 2349 would strengthen California's emergency air monitoring capacity and support coordinated state and local responses during air quality emergencies.
REGISTERED SUPPORT / OPPOSITION:
Support
South Coast Air Quality Management District (sponsor)
California Air Pollution Control Officers Association
San Diego County Air Pollution Control District
Opposition
None on file
Analysis Prepared by: Lawrence Lingbloom / NAT. RES. /
Discussed in Hearing
1MIN
Assembly Floor
10MIN
Senate Standing Committee on Environmental Quality
57SEC
Assembly Floor
32MIN
Assembly Standing Committee on Appropriations
6MIN
Assembly Standing Committee on Natural Resources
Bill Author
