​(September 26, 2012) A California Chamber of Commerce-supported bill that encourages job growth by reducing time and costs associated with roadway improvements was signed by Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr.

AB 890 (Olsen; R-Modesto), a job creator bill, improves safety and roadway conditions that expedite goods and people movement by exempting roadway projects from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process.

CEQA was initially passed to ensure that California’s environment is considered before moving forward with a project. Over time, however, CEQA has become a hook for litigation and a means to delay worthy projects. Until changes are made to the underlying process, the CalChamber supports legitimate CEQA exemptions that will encourage economic growth and recovery.

AB 890 will exempt improvements within an existing roadway from the CEQA process. AB 890 allows local governments to fix and maintain roadways in a timely manner, ensuring the safety of drivers and ease of goods movement. Allowing necessary improvements to be completed without delay will create certainty for businesses and developers involved in the projects as well as provide for more efficient goods movement.

AB 890 is consistent with the goals of the CalChamber 2012 Renew Agenda and will help position California for economic recovery.