CA AB490

Establishes streamlined environmental review procedures for "qualified projects" defined as affordable housing developments where 25-50% of units are affordable and located in counties where 10% or more of residents are severely housing cost burdened.

Requires judicial proceedings challenging project approvals to be resolved within 270 days of filing the certified record with the court, with procedures set by California Rules of Court.

Mandates lead agencies conduct informational workshops within 10 days of releasing draft environmental documents and hold public hearings within 10 days before closing the public comment period.

Allows commenters to request nonbinding mediation within 5 days after the public comment period closes, with mediation ending no later than 35 days after the period closes; requires agencies to adopt agreed-upon measures as conditions of approval.

Exempts lead agencies from considering written comments submitted after the public comment period unless they address new issues, new information, project changes, proposed conditions, or mitigation measures released after the draft document.