Bill > SB71

This bill amends the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to expand and extend several exemptions for transportation-related projects. The bill permanently exempts active transportation plans, pedestrian plans, and bicycle transportation plans from CEQA requirements, and adds a new exemption for transit comprehensive operational analyses and route modifications. It extends existing exemptions for various transit and transportation projects until January 1, 2040, including pedestrian and bicycle facilities, transit prioritization projects, and projects involving zero-emission or low-emission vehicles. For projects estimated to cost over $100 million, the bill requires additional criteria such as a project business case, racial equity analysis, and public meetings. The bill also mandates that projects over certain cost thresholds use a skilled and trained workforce and includes provisions for adjusting cost thresholds based on the Consumer Price Index. Additionally, the bill requires lead agencies to hold public hearings, consider environmental factors, and file notices for exempt projects. The legislation aims to streamline environmental review for transportation infrastructure projects, particularly those focused on sustainable and low-emission transit options, while maintaining some public input and accountability mechanisms.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB71