CA AB978

Requires local agencies with jurisdiction over streets and highways to indefinitely allow recycled materials in standard specifications at levels no less than those in the Department of Transportation's standard specifications (removing the previous January 1, 2027 sunset date)

Covers recycled base and subbase materials, reclaimed asphalt pavement, reclaimed aggregate, fly ash, returned plastic concrete, and other recycled materials in asphalt and concrete

Allows bidders on local agency contracts to request written explanation via email when a local agency's specifications do not meet Caltrans recycled material levels, citing infeasibility

Exempts special districts, cities with populations of 25,000 or fewer, and counties with populations of 100,000 or fewer from the requirements

Eliminates the existing requirement for Caltrans and local agencies to use advanced technologies and material recycling techniques that reduce greenhouse gas emissions through material choice and construction method