For Immediate Release
Contact: John Myers
john.myers@calchamber.com | press@calchamber.com
Proposal seeks to modernize, streamline the California Environmental Quality Act
(Oct. 21, 2025) Sacramento, CA – The California Chamber of Commerce today filed a request with the Office of the Attorney General for title and summary on a ballot measure to modernize the 55-year-old law governing environmental review of infrastructure projects vital to the state’s future prosperity.
The Building an Affordable California initiative would streamline the review of essential projects under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Rather than provide piecemeal exemptions, it would establish reasonable timelines for local and state agencies to review plans and solicit public comment. Timelines would also be established for any necessary judicial review.
The initiative would ensure timely decisions are made on proposed essential projects such as housing, improvements to water supply, transportation, energy, and facilities for health and public safety.
A commentary on the initiative from CalChamber President & CEO Jennifer Barrera can be viewed on the CalChamber website.
CalChamber intends to lead a broad and diverse coalition of leaders in clean energy, housing, transportation, and other business sectors to qualify the initiative for the statewide ballot next fall.
About CalChamber
The California Chamber of Commerce (CalChamber) is the largest broad-based business advocate to government in California. Membership represents one-quarter of the private sector jobs in California and includes companies of all sizes and from every industry within the state. Leveraging our front-line knowledge of laws and regulations, we provide products and services to help businesses comply with both federal and state law. CalChamber, a not-for-profit organization with roots dating to 1890, promotes international trade and investment to stimulate California’s economy and create jobs. Please visit our website at www.calchamber.com.
