CA AB2782

Adds Section 21082.4 to the Public Resources Code to authorize lead agencies to consider specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other benefits of proposed projects in environmental review documents.

Allows lead agencies to evaluate the negative impacts of denying a project as part of the environmental review process.

Includes regionwide or statewide environmental benefits among the benefits that may be considered.

Requires that any benefits or negative impacts considered must be based on substantial evidence in light of the whole record.

Approved by Governor on August 24, 2018 and filed with Secretary of State same day.