SB 131’s Advanced Manufacturing Exemptions are Dangerous for California

SB 131’s Advanced Manufacturing Exemptions are Dangerous for California

SB 131 includes a rushed and poorly defined exemption to CEQA for “advanced manufacturing,” allowing industrial projects like lithium processing, plastics production, and hydrogen fuel facilities to bypass environmental review. These projects could now be fast-tracked into low-income neighborhoods without community input or safeguards. This sets a dangerous precedent, stripping away key environmental protections and increasing pollution risks in already vulnerable areas. We’re calling for immediate amendments to remove or strictly limit this exemption and restore protections for sensitive habitats.

This exemption was quietly inserted into a budget trailer bill and passed with minimal public scrutiny, an alarming move that undermines transparency and community voice. By redefining industrial development as a component of affordable housing policy, SB 131 opens the door to polluting industries near homes, schools, and parks without proper review. Our board has an opportunity to speak out now, while amendments are still on the table.

We urge you to contact our legislative representatives immediately and demand they repeal or significantly narrow the advanced manufacturing exemption and restore full CEQA protections.