Agency legislative analyst Gus Khouri and staff will provide updates on state and federal legislation and seek Committee input on recommended positions on draft legislation.
The updated state bill list (attachment 1) includes several new bills that align with the Agency's adopted legislative program (web attachment 1). Changes to the list since the Board adoption on April 28 are indicated via strike-out and underline.
The following bills are now recommended for a changed position:
- Assembly Bill (AB) 41 (Wood): Broadband Infrastructure: this bill was amended and no longer provides the benefits to disadvantaged areas. Staff recommends changing the Agency position on the bill from "support" to "watch".
- Senate Bill (SB) 790 (Stern): Wildlife connectivity mitigation credits: this bill authorizes the Department of Fish and Wildlife to give Caltrans mitigation credit for wildlife crossing projects. The bill could be useful for addressing work on State Route 68, and staff recommends a "support" position.
On the federal front, Congressmember Panetta has announced his nominations for the Transportation & Infrastructure authorization bill (web attachment 2), including the US 101 Safety Improvements - South of Salinas Project, $2 million for environmental review.
Meanwhile, Senator Feinstein has also published the paperwork requirement for requesting federal funding through her office. Project nominations are due May 5.
Staff will provide a verbal update on all activities at the meeting.