Bill > SB675

This bill modifies the structure and duties of the Imperial County Air Pollution Control District (air district) by changing how its governing board is appointed and what responsibilities it has, with most changes taking effect on July 1, 2027. Specifically, it establishes a new 10-member governing board for the Imperial County Air Pollution Control District, which will include representatives from the board of supervisors, city councils, and four public members with expertise in areas like public health, environmental justice, labor, and agriculture, and requires this board to consult with the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps on permitting and regulatory matters. The air district will also be mandated to create and maintain its own website separate from the county's, posting detailed information about permits, enforcement actions, and public comments, and must apply for state and federal grants, evaluate its public complaint process, develop a comprehensive air monitoring plan, and publish an annual air quality report. Furthermore, the bill requires the air district to post permit applications within three business days of receipt and consider public comments before taking action, and it prohibits the Imperial County Air Pollution Control District from issuing "major air permits" to "Title V sources," which are large industrial facilities regulated by the federal Environmental Protection Agency. The bill also clarifies the funding sources for the air district, allowing for per capita assessments on cities and counties within the district, and includes legislative findings that a special law is necessary for Imperial County due to its specific air pollution and climate change goals.