California Environmental Quality Act Overhaul

Planned

Two proposals advancing through the California Legislature aim to significantly change the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). One proposal would exempt most urban housing developments from the law, while the other would weaken the rules for most other types of construction. The legislative action is driven by criticism that the state cannot build sufficient housing and public infrastructure. Governor Gavin Newsom has endorsed the bills and fast-tracked their approval as part of the state budget, potentially making them law within weeks.