Bill > AB2231

This bill establishes streamlined administrative and judicial review procedures under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)—a state law that requires public agencies to study and disclose the environmental impacts of proposed projects—specifically for a major hospital campus project in the City of Santa Clara. In response to anticipated financial strains and funding reductions from recent federal healthcare legislation (Public Law 119-21), the legislation aims to accelerate the construction of critical healthcare infrastructure. To qualify for these streamlined reviews, the project must meet strict criteria, including a minimum investment of one billion dollars, zero net additional greenhouse gas emissions, LEED gold certification or higher, significant reductions in vehicle travel, and the creation of at least 500 construction and permanent jobs. Furthermore, the project's developer and contractors must adhere to rigorous labor standards by paying prevailing wages, employing a skilled and trained workforce, and covering the court and record-preparation costs associated with any legal challenges. If certified, any lawsuits challenging the project's environmental impact report must be prepared concurrently with the administrative review and are targeted for resolution in the courts within 270 calendar days.