Bill > AB1938

This bill establishes a process for designating areas of California's coastline as "state surfing reserves" to protect and recognize significant surfing locations. The Ocean Protection Council (OPC), an entity that coordinates state efforts to protect ocean resources, will be responsible for creating criteria and an application process for these reserves by July 1, 2027. Local governments can then apply to the OPC to have areas within their jurisdiction designated as surfing reserves, provided these areas meet the established criteria, which will consider factors like wave quality, surf culture, environmental characteristics, and management needs. Once approved, the OPC will officially designate the area as a state surfing reserve, publicize it, and potentially erect signs, with funding for these activities possibly coming from donations. These designated reserves will also contribute to California's "30x30 goal," a statewide initiative to conserve 30 percent of the state's lands and coastal waters by 2030, aiming to conserve biodiversity, expand access to nature, and build climate resilience. The OPC can revoke a reserve's designation if it no longer meets the required criteria.

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB1938