Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas announces committee picks with significant implications for climate policy
Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas has made a series of committee picks that will have a major impact on energy and climate policy in California. These selections, announced recently, will determine which bills move forward when the Legislature reconvenes in January. Rivas has chosen a mix of allies and newcomers to oversee committees related to water, transportation, housing, natural resources, and energy. This article will provide a comprehensive breakdown of Rivas’ picks and their potential implications for climate policy in the state.
Assemblymember Diane Papan to Oversee Water, Parks, and Wildlife
Assemblymember Diane Papan, a close ally of Speaker Rivas, has been chosen to oversee the water, parks, and wildlife committee. Papan, who was elected to the State Assembly in 2022, has a mixed policy record when it comes to water issues. While she has supported climate resilience and local water initiatives in the past, her more moderate stance may result in a more muted approach compared to her predecessor. Papan’s appointment raises questions about how she will navigate the fault lines between agriculture, cities, and the environment within the committee.
Assemblymember Lori Wilson Heads the Transportation Committee
Assemblymember Lori Wilson has been appointed as the chair of the influential Transportation Committee, replacing Assemblymember Laura Friedman. While Wilson has not received a perfect environmental scorecard and has been endorsed by the California Building Industry Association, environmentalists remain hopeful that she will continue Friedman’s efforts to align transportation spending with climate goals. Wilson’s background as an auditor may prove beneficial in bringing accountability to Caltrans, the agency responsible for ongoing highway expansion projects.
Assemblymember Chris Ward Tackles the Housing Crisis
Assemblymember Chris Ward has been appointed as the new chair of the Housing and Community Development Committee, taking over from Assemblymember Buffy Wicks. Ward, known for his strong record on climate and housing, aims to bring a climate lens to the state’s housing crisis. He plans to work on the principles of AB 68, a bill he introduced last year to map disaster-prone areas inappropriate for development and upzone in climate-smart regions. Ward’s appointment offers the potential for bridging divides between developers, low-income communities, and environmental groups.
Isaac Bryan Takes the Helm of Natural Resources Committee
Isaac Bryan, a Los Angeles progressive, has been named as the chair of the Natural Resources Committee, a surprising move by Speaker Rivas. Although Bryan does not have an extensive background in environmental policy, he has been involved in environmental justice fights, particularly in reforming California’s referendum process. While Bryan’s appointment marks a shift from Rivas’ original plan, it is unlikely to result in a significant policy overhaul within the committee.
Cottie Petrie-Norris Leads the Utilities and Energy Committee
Cottie Petrie-Norris, a surprising choice, will chair the Utilities and Energy Committee, replacing Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia. Petrie-Norris, who previously chaired the Accountability and Administrative Review Committee, brings a fresh perspective to the energy sector. Despite not having previous experience on the Utilities and Energy Committee, she has chaired an Assembly select committee on green innovation. Her appointment signals a potential shift in focus within the committee.
Continuity in Key Climate and Insurance Committees
Assemblymembers Steve Bennett and Lisa Calderon will retain their positions as chairs of the budget subcommittee on climate crisis, resources, energy, and transportation, and the Insurance Committee, respectively. However, Assemblymember Jim Wood’s appointment as speaker pro tem elevates the debate on wildfire insurance due to his record of securing concessions from the industry for fire-ravaged constituents.
Conclusion: Speaker Rivas’ committee picks for energy and climate posts have the potential to shape California’s climate policy landscape. While some of the appointees bring fresh perspectives to their respective committees, others offer continuity in key areas. The differing approaches to hydrogen production and conflicting agency signals raise questions about the state’s ability to lead on clean and renewable hydrogen. As the Legislature reconvenes in January, these committee chairs will play a crucial role in advancing climate-focused legislation and addressing the pressing challenges facing California.
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