Bill > AB77

This bill, titled the Budget Act of 2013: public resources, makes numerous amendments and additions to various codes, including the Fish and Game Code, Government Code, Health and Safety Code, Public Contract Code, Public Resources Code, Public Utilities Code, Streets and Highways Code, and Water Code. Key provisions include transferring responsibility for the direction of policy for marine protected areas (MPAs) to the Ocean Protection Council, making changes to reporting requirements for state agencies regarding late payment penalties, and updating provisions related to information security programs. The bill also repeals and amends sections concerning hazardous waste management, including fees and regulations for generators, transporters, and facilities, and revises provisions related to beverage container recycling programs, including certification requirements for recycling centers and processors, and fee structures. Additionally, it modifies regulations for energy efficiency and renewable energy programs, including the Electric Program Investment Charge (EPIC) program and the New Solar Homes Partnership, and addresses the transfer of state property. The bill also includes provisions for environmental education programs and makes changes to the Public Utilities Commission's budget review processes and the oversight of energy research projects. Many of the changes related to hazardous waste fees and regulations are set to become operative on January 1, 2014, indicating a transition in how these activities are managed and funded.