Legislation to Create Inventory of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Clears Senate Committee
SB 511 would give cities and counties vital information to help them prepare Climate Action Plans, meet state and local goals
SACRAMENTO – Legislation by Sen. Catherine Blakespear, D-Encinitas, to ensure cities and counties have the information they need to combat global warming and make reductions in greenhouse gas emissions passed the Senate Environmental Quality Committee on Wednesday.
SB 511 would direct the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to prepare inventories of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for cities and counties to use in their preparation of Climate Action Plans and efforts to reduce GHG emissions in local communities.
“As a former mayor, I know the importance of the work local governments do to meet climate goals and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” Blakespear said. “Providing local governments with the data they need on greenhouse gas emissions ensures cities and counties can measure their progress, meet their reduction targets and help the state meet its goals.”
Some cities and counties already track their GHG emissions, but many do not. Inventories would be especially helpful for vulnerable and disadvantaged communities that presently do not have the expertise or funding to measure their emissions.
The bill would provide a $2.5 million appropriation to CARB to do the work. By directing CARB to assemble and share GHG emission inventories with local governments, SB 511 would ensure emissions across the state are being tracked in a uniform and consistent manner.
Reliable data not only assist local governments in their planning and efforts but also help the state accurately analyze trends and progress. The state has set a goal of reducing GHG emissions by 40 percent from 1990 levels by 2030.
“We are past the 11th hour in addressing climate change,” Blakespear said. “This legislation will help us be more effective at reducing greenhouse gas emissions at all levels of government.”
SB 511 passed the Senate Environmental Quality Committee on a 7-0 vote. The legislation moves next to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration.
Elected in November, Blakespear represents Senate District 38, which covers northern coastal San Diego County and part of Orange County. To learn more about the district and Blakespear, visit her Senate website.
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