Assembly Passes AB 897 to Encourage and Support Regional Climate Adaptation Planning

(SACRAMENTO, CA) – This week, the State Assembly passed Assembly Bill (AB) 897, which Assemblymember Ward is joint authoring.   The measure requires the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) to establish geographic boundaries for regional climate networks and to develop guidelines on how eligible entities may establish and govern those networks.

“Our climate crisis continues to threaten public health and safety, economic stability, and the resources and ecosystems of all Californians,” said Assemblymember Ward.  “Now is the time to assist local governments in addressing current and future impacts of climate change by creating regional climate networks.  By establishing regional climate networks, AB 897 will create opportunities to develop collaborative processes to address and mitigate climate change.”

AB 897 requires the development of guidelines establishing a procedure to create a regional climate adaptation action plan.  Additionally, OPR will make recommendations to specified Legislative policy and budget committees to support the work of regional climate networks, find potential sources of financial assistance and provide options for distributing funds to support the creation and implementation of regional climate adaptation action plans.

For questions on AB 897, or to schedule an interview with Assemblymember Ward, contact Ansermio Estrada.