Sen. Blakespear Issues Statement About Veto of SB 954

SACRAMENTO – Sen. Catherine S. Blakespear, D-Encinitas, on Friday issued the following statement regarding the Governor’s decision to veto SB 954, legislation she authored to rein in overly broad CEQA exemptions:

“I’m disappointed the Governor vetoed SB 954. While some CEQA exemptions enacted last year are important to stimulate housing, economic development and encourage advanced manufacturing, California must provide basic protections for the environment and vulnerable communities – specifically with the inherent dangers that come with advanced manufacturing facilities. The near disaster at GKN Aerospace in Garden Grove earlier this year, and the evacuation of 50,000 residents there, illustrated the danger. We should not have to wait for another emergency before recognizing that sweeping – and rushed – exemptions from environmental review need reasonable guardrails. Protecting communities and workers is not an impediment to economic growth – it is part of responsible growth. We need guardrails to these CEQA exemptions to safeguard Californians and ensure the environment isn’t damaged. I will continue to work toward achieving this goal next year.”

Sen. Blakespear represents Senate District 38, which covers northern San Diego County and southern Orange County. To learn more about the district and Sen. Blakespear, visit her Senate website.