AB 1444 Summary

• Requires lead agencies to prepare a record of proceedings concurrently with environmental documents when requested by a project applicant who agrees to bear costs, through January 1, 2016.

• Mandates public agencies prepare and certify records of proceedings within 60 days of request and lodge copies with the court, with costs paid by the parties.

• Requires courts to schedule hearings within 30 days of filing statement of issues to address objections to the record of proceedings and identify portions parties intend to reference.

• Allows project applicants to request electronic posting of all record documents on agency websites, with draft environmental documents and submissions made available in accessible electronic format within five business days.

• Specifies no state reimbursement is required because local agencies have authority to levy service charges or fees to cover costs of the mandated program.