AB 122 Summary

• Establishes the Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act, prohibiting import, export, or taking of western Joshua trees except through permits; creates a conservation fund financed by permit fees to acquire and manage conservation lands.

• Authorizes the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection to plan and administer public works projects with Department of Finance approval, and allows the California Science Center to receive wage adjustment allocations for minimum wage increases.

• Extends the California Water and Wastewater Arrearage Payment Program through July 1, 2026, expanding eligibility to include private wastewater treatment providers and extending the covered period for COVID-19 pandemic-related arrearages through December 31, 2022.

• Permits diversion of floodflows for groundwater recharge without water rights if conditions are met, including local flood risk notice and proper reporting; prohibits state liability for related flood damages and extends indefinitely the drought relief program.

• Increases dam and reservoir application fees significantly, creates the Dam Safety and Climate Resilience Local Assistance Program for grants to repair existing dams, and authorizes labor peace agreements for hotel operations at Old Sacramento and Old Town San Diego state historic parks.