CA SB1278

Requires every public agency with discretionary approval of any coal shipment project through the Port of Oakland to prepare an environmental impact report (EIR) under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)

Applies to all portions of projects relating to coal shipment through the Port of Oakland, regardless of other CEQA provisions, to the extent consistent with federal law

Declares that a special law is necessary for coal shipment at the Port of Oakland due to its unique nature and that a general law cannot be applied

Specifies that no state reimbursement is required because local agencies have authority to levy service charges, fees, or assessments to cover the mandated costs