CA AB174

Extends the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) exemption for native fish and wildlife habitat conservation and restoration projects from January 1, 2025 to January 1, 2030.

Exempts all work performed under the State Capitol Building Annex Act of 2016 from CEQA requirements and repeals the accelerated judicial review process previously required for such projects.

Appropriates $700,000,000 from the General Fund over three fiscal years ($300 million in 2024-25, $250 million in 2025-26, and $150 million in 2026-27) to be transferred to the State Project Infrastructure Fund for Capitol Annex acquisition, design, construction, and equipping.

Requires the Director of Finance to direct transfers of appropriated amounts to the Assembly and Senate Operating Funds upon request, with authority to adjust timing across fiscal years if needed for timely project payments.

Makes conforming changes to the State Office Building Act of 2018 and includes provisions allowing flexible project delivery methods and direct negotiations for services between the Department of General Services and contractors.