CA SB1396

Establishes the Inner Coast Range Program administered by the Wildlife Conservation Board, covering approximately 10 million acres across 13 counties in Northern California with goals including wildlife protection, recreation, wildfire risk reduction, and economic support.

Requires the Wildlife Conservation Board to establish an advisory board with one representative from each county in the region and authorizes participation by legislators and state and federal agency representatives.

Creates the Inner Coast Range Program Fund in the State Treasury and authorizes the board to make grants and loans to public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and tribal organizations for land acquisition, planning, and conservation projects.

Requires the board to submit biannual reports to the Legislature and Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency on program expenditures and costs, and directs the board to review the program and report by January 1, 2027 on the possible creation of a state conservancy for the region.

Restricts the board from acquiring fee interests in real property by purchase, prohibits the use of eminent domain, and prevents expenditures that would support or deter the Sites Reservoir project.