Bill > AB1358

This bill amends the Santa Ana River Conservancy Program by adding specific definitions and requirements for funding projects in the lower Santa Ana River region. The bill introduces new definitions for terms like "disadvantaged community" (a community with median household income less than 80% of the area average), "heavily urbanized area" (a city with 300,000+ population), and "vulnerable population" (a subgroup facing heightened risks from climate change). The key provision requires that at least 60% of the program's funds be allocated to projects in heavily urbanized areas of the lower Santa Ana River region, specifically targeting benefits for disadvantaged communities, severely disadvantaged communities, or vulnerable populations. The bill also clarifies the geographic boundaries of the Santa Ana River region and lower Santa Ana River region, and maintains the existing conservancy's powers to acquire property, undertake improvement projects, manage lands, and coordinate with local agencies. This legislative change aims to ensure more focused and equitable investment in urban areas within the Santa Ana River watershed, with a particular emphasis on supporting communities most in need of environmental and recreational resources.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB1358