Bill > AB14

This bill establishes the Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies Program, which aims to reduce air pollution, protect marine mammals, and support sustainable shipping along the California coast. The Ocean Protection Council would participate in the program as an advisor, working with air pollution control districts, marine sanctuaries, and other stakeholders to implement a voluntary vessel speed reduction initiative. The program targets oceangoing vessels of 300 gross tons or larger, encouraging them to travel at speeds of 10 knots or less to minimize air pollution (reducing nitrogen oxides and greenhouse gas emissions), decrease the risk of fatal whale strikes, and reduce harmful underwater noise. The program includes components such as marketing to engage cargo owners, data collection on ship speeds and marine impacts, and incentives for participants based on reduced-speed travel distances. Participating air districts are required to submit a report to the Legislature by December 31, 2029, detailing the program's implementation. The bill highlights the program's existing success, which since 2014 has achieved significant reductions in emissions and whale strike risks, and seeks to expand the initiative to additional coastal areas including San Diego and the North Coast.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB14