CalChamber Files ‘Building an Affordable California’ Ballot Initiative
Proposal seeks to modernize, streamline the California Environmental Quality Act
Last week, the California Chamber of Commerce 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.
Click here to read a commentary on the initiative from CalChamber President and CEO Jennifer Barrera.
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.