California Faces Dual Political Battles Over Key Environmental Law
California is currently embroiled in two significant political disputes concerning the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), a foundational environmental law enacted 56 years ago. One battle is unfolding in the state Legislature with Senate Bill 954, which aims to narrow the application of CEQA exemptions previously granted to certain projects, particularly 'advanced manufacturing facilities,' under Senate Bill 131. Environmental groups support SB 954, while business groups argue it will hinder industrial investment and compel union labor. The second battle is a ballot measure, Proposition 45, championed by the California Chamber of Commerce and other business interests. This proposition seeks to accelerate the CEQA vetting process for projects and restrict the ability of opponents to seek judicial intervention. Environmental and union advocates, organized under 'People Over Polluters,' strongly oppose Proposition 45, viewing it as an attempt to dismantle environmental safeguards. 
