California Moves Ahead With Streamlining of Envionmental Regulations

In clarifying guidelines awaited since Senate Bill 226 and Assembly Bill 900 were signed into law late last year, the Office of Planning and Research has drafted reforms to CEQA intended to, "simplify the approval process for infill projects by eliminating repetitive studies of environmental effects already addressed in other planning documents, such as general plans and zoning codes. This will help reduce the time and cost often associated with infill projects, while also allowing cities to focus on new or unique projects that help create jobs, revitalize cities and promote transit."

"Together, CEQA reforms in SB 226 and AB 900 are intended to reduce repetitive documentation and expedite litigation timelines while preserving informed decision-making and mitigation of environmental harm."