CA AB996

Authorizes the California Coastal Commission or San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission to accept existing sea level rise information or plans prepared by local governments as satisfying the required content for sea level rise plans

Encourages local governments to voluntarily consult with the California Coastal Commission by January 1, 2029, before formally submitting local coastal programs or amendments to ensure materials are sufficient for review

Establishes a voluntary early consultation process where local governments can request meetings with Commission staff to receive written recommendations on what may prevent certification of their coastal programs

Local governments must still comply with the requirement to develop sea level rise plans by January 1, 2034, as part of local coastal programs

Early consultation participation does not prevent local governments from submitting required sea level rise plans at any time