CA SB1083

Requires the administrator for oil spill response to develop a communications element for the California oil spill contingency plan to facilitate efficient and timely communications within unified command, between agencies, and with the public.

Communications element must include a database of local public information officers in each coastal county, a mechanism to share critical information from local agencies and nongovernmental organizations with unified command members, and early community outreach protocols.

Early community outreach must provide the public with up-to-date information on oil spills, including identifying the responsible party and informing affected parties of their right to file claims.

Administrator shall incorporate the communications element within the California oil spill contingency planning framework established by federal and state law and regulation to the extent feasible.

Amends Section 8574.7 of the Government Code relating to oil spill response planning and preparedness.