CA AB1628

Revises the definition of "environmental justice" across three California codes to include "meaningful involvement" of people of all races, cultures, incomes, and national origins in environmental decision-making processes

Expands the definition in Government Code Section 65040.12 to specify that environmental justice includes availability of a healthy environment, reduction of pollution burdens on disproportionately affected communities, governmental engagement with impacted populations, and meaningful consideration of their recommendations

Updates Government Code Section 56668 to require local agency formation commissions to consider how proposals promote environmental justice when reviewing changes of organization or reorganization, using the expanded definition

Updates Public Resources Code Section 30107.3 to align the Coastal Act's definition of environmental justice with the broader definition that includes meaningful involvement and specific commitments to addressing pollution disparities

Approved by Governor on September 27, 2019, and effective upon filing with the Secretary of State