CA AB512

Authorizes the California Transportation Commission to relinquish portions of state highways that constitute "infrastructural barriers" to counties or cities, effective January 1, 2023, with departmental agreement.

Defines "infrastructural barriers" as state highways with high speeds, grade separation, or design factors that displace residences or obstruct connectivity, walking, biking, mobility, economic development, or access across the barrier.

Requires relinquishment conditions including commission determination that it serves the state's best interest, purposes of restorative economic and social justice (transit-oriented development, affordable housing, green space, active transportation), and removal or retrofit enhancing community connectivity.

Mandates cities or counties determine the highway construction had significant disproportionate impact on disadvantaged communities with a causal connection and lacking substantial legitimate justification.

Upon relinquishment, the portion ceases to be a state highway and becomes ineligible for future adoption, with any redeveloped land prioritizing benefits to populations previously displaced or impacted by the barrier.