Bill > AB1139

This bill amends the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to expand an existing exemption for creating public access to nonmotorized recreational areas. The bill extends the exemption to county park agencies and modifies several key requirements. Under the new provisions, lead agencies must adopt a natural resource management plan that identifies resources, management strategies, sensitive species, cultural resources, and mitigation measures before approving changes in land use for nonmotorized recreation. The bill requires that any changes involve only minimal physical alterations, such as adding signage or portable restrooms, and must not likely cause significant adverse impacts to tribal cultural resources or endangered species. Before approving such changes, the lead agency must hold a public meeting, provide notice, and make findings based on substantial evidence that all criteria are met and sufficient funding exists to implement the management plan. The exemption applies to areas used exclusively for low-impact activities like hiking, walking, bike riding, and nature viewing, and does not apply if the public access is reasonably expected to have significant environmental effects. The bill includes a sunset provision, expiring on January 1, 2030, and does not require state reimbursement to local agencies for implementing these requirements.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB1139