What this bill does: SB 1182 would require the California Energy Commission (CEC) to develop a statewide master plan to mitigate climate risks, enhance sustainability, and reduce harmful emissions from school facilities by pinpointing policy gaps, ensuring equitable allocation of state resources, and recommending overall priorities and roles for state programs focused on school buildings and grounds.
Why it matters: This legislation seeks to better serve and safeguard our students and communities most affected by the impacts of the climate crisis. Frontline and low-income communities bear the impacts of climate change disproportionately, and Black, Hispanic, and Native American students disproportionately attend school districts with lower average spending in their facilities.
This bill also positions schools as crucial players in preparing and aiding the state's endeavors in addressing climate-related challenges, as these facilities generate significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and add to other adverse environmental effects. A state-led Master Plan process will spark much-needed communication and coordination across state, county, and local agencies to identify approaches, including applying for federal incentives, that meet the unique needs of schools and maximize the value of public investments in school facilities.
Additional context: In 2023, SB 394 Gonzalez (A Master Plan for Climate Resilient Schools) received strong support from a statewide coalition including hundreds students, educators, and health professionals across the state and was passed 115-1 with bipartisan support in the Senate and Assembly, but was vetoed by the Governor over budgetary concerns.
Letters, Links, & Engagement Record
April 12th support letter for the Senate Appropriations Committee hearing
March 28th support letter for the Senate Education Committee hearing
March 19th Senate Energy, Utilities, and Communications Committee analysis
March 12th support letter for the Senate Energy, Utilities, and Communications Committee hearing
February 15th bill introduction statement from UndauntedK12
February 14th bill introduction press release from Senator Gonzalez’ office