CA SB1117

Requires the California Transportation Commission to include policy direction in regional transportation plan guidelines for integrating all passenger rail services (high-speed, intercity, commuter, and urban) into a coordinated system with emphasis on intermodal facilities and cost-effective services.

Revises the 10-year State Rail Plan requirements to comply with the federal Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008, including comprehensive statewide rail system plans, passenger rail objectives, and identification of improvements benefiting both freight and passenger services.

Establishes a new timeline for the State Rail Plan with a draft due to the High-Speed Rail Authority and California Transportation Commission by December 1, 2015, final approval by March 1, 2016, and updates required at least every five years thereafter.

Requires the High-Speed Rail Authority to develop a plan for implementing blended systems that benefit both conventional intercity and commuter rail services while being compatible with future high-speed rail upgrades, with a draft due by December 31, 2013.