In a recent meeting of the Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Subcommittee No. 2, significant concerns were raised regarding the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and its handling of carbon management projects. Community advocates expressed deep disappointment over CARB's reluctance to commit to necessary rulemaking that would protect vulnerable communities, particularly in the Central Valley, from potential harms associated with these projects.

The discussions highlighted that CARB has received substantial funding—$7.2 million over two years—yet has not made meaningful progress in establishing regulations to safeguard frontline communities. Advocates pointed out that despite the passage of SB905, which mandates rulemaking for community protections, CARB has failed to initiate this process. This inaction is seen as a violation of both the statute's intent and the principles of environmental justice.

Community representatives emphasized the urgent need for CARB to develop and implement these protections before allowing any new carbon management projects to proceed. They called for the legislature to pause permitting until the necessary regulations are in place, arguing that good intentions alone are insufficient to ensure public health and safety.

Additionally, the meeting included support for the reauthorization of cap-and-trade programs and a push for funding to enhance nature-based solutions in urban areas. Advocates stressed the importance of preparing vulnerable communities for increasing heat and severe weather events, as global emissions continue to rise.

The discussions underscore a critical moment for California's environmental policy, as community leaders urge lawmakers to prioritize protective measures that align with the state's commitment to environmental justice and public health.