We are almost through the first half of the California legislative cycle. We are proud to share some exciting updates on key bills we are endorsing, including some that ForestWatch and supporters have pushed forward through the legislature. There are also a number of bills we have opposed so far this cycle.
California’s Two-Year Legislative Cycle
California has what is known as a two-year legislative cycle. We are currently on our way to wrap up the first year. Bills that do not pass out of their house of origin this year are commonly referred to as “two year bills” because they will carry over into 2026. These bills must pass their house of origin by the end of January 2026 to stay alive.
Some bills that missed the June 6 house of origin deadline or became stalled in committee will have a second chance to move forward when the legislature reconvenes on January 5, 2026.
ForestWatch’s Top California Legislative Priorities
Our top legislative priority bills include wildlife protection, oil accountability, and our very first state sponsored bill!
Wildlife
We’re proud to support AB 902 (Schultz) Connected Communities Act, which builds on last year’s successful passage of the Room to Roam Act. This bill would make roads safer for drivers while promoting wildlife by requiring transportation projects on local and county roads to safeguard and enhance wildlife connectivity.
AB 902 is a critical step towards a more connected landscape for the state’s wildlife, addressing gaps in existing policy that hinder effective movement across habitats.
Latest Action: Senate Appropriations Committee Hearing Date (08/18/25)
We successfully opposed AB 1038 (Hadwick): Bears: hunting: use of dogs. This bill would authorize a person to pursue bears with dogs—but not injure or kill the bear—during hunting seasons set by the Fish and Game Commission. While the bill failed in the Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee, it may return next year.
Latest Action: Failed in Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee- reconsideration was granted
Blocking Oil Expansion
We’re working alongside several other organizations to support AB 1448 (Hart) Coastal resources: oil and gas development. The bill aims to safeguard our coast against federal attempts to unlawfully open federal waters to new oil leasing off California. Current gaps in state law leave untoward paths for federal oil expansion through existing infrastructure in state waters. AB 1448 takes a firm stand against efforts to expand drilling off our coast, to protect against associated risks to California interests. AB 1448 addresses the need to prevent aging infrastructure from expanded or prolonged use when it should be retired.
“AB 1448 strengthens California’s commitment to protecting our coastline, marine ecosystems, and coastal communities from the dangers of offshore oil development. As the Trump Administration continues to push for expanded fossil fuel production, it is imperative that California work against this dangerous agenda by limiting new oil infrastructure and enforcing the highest safety standards.” – Assemblymember Hart
This bill responds directly to Sable Offshore Corp. recent attempt to restart corroded pipeline infrastructure in Santa Barbara County, highlighting the urgent need for proactive protections.
Latest Action: Senate Appropriations Committee Hearing Date (08/18/25)
Our First State Sponsored Bill!
We’re thrilled to announce our first state-sponsored bill AB 581 (Bennett) State shrub bill, which designates the bigberry manzanita (Arctostaphylos glauca) as California’s official state shrub. Native almost exclusively to California, this evergreen plant is a cornerstone of the chaparral ecosystem found across central and southern California. Its deep roots stabilize soils, its flowers support pollinators, and its berries have been traditionally used by several Indigenous communities and are sought out by wildlife such as black bears and coyotes.
Bigberry manzanita is also a symbol of resilience: it produces seeds that remain dormant in the soil for decades until stimulated by chemicals produced by fire. While this species cannot resprout, its population restarts from this dormant seed bank after each fire. However, as fire frequency increases across its range, bigberry manzanitas and other native shrubs are at risk if they do not have enough time to re-establish their seed banks between fires.
If the bill is signed into law, bigberry manzanita would join a list of iconic state symbols such as the California poppy, coast redwood, giant sequoia, California quail, and more. AB 581 uplifts the importance of native plants and highlights bigberry manzanita as a living reflection of California’s biodiversity, adaptation, and ecological as well as cultural heritage.
Latest Action: Passed Senate Governmental Organization Committee
Clean Water
We are proud to support SB 601 (Allen) The Right to Clean Water Act, which would codify key protections from the federal Clean Water Act into California law. This bill ensures long-term protections against future rollbacks and restores safeguards Californians have relied on for decades.
Latest Action: Re-referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee
Why Your Engagement Matters
Engaging in the legislative process is one of the most powerful ways to protect California’s lands, wildlife, and communities. Elected officials want to hear from you; your voice can shape how they vote on key environmental issues. When you speak up, you’re helping build lasting protections across the state.
Whether it’s advocating for safe wildlife crossings, defending the central coast from oil expansion, or celebrating native plants like the bigberry manzanita, your involvement truly makes a difference. Every action you take helps show that we care deeply about the future of our environment.
For updates on how you can get involved, sign up for our action center. If you would like to participate in legislative district meetings to further advocate on a specific piece of legislation, please reach out to carla@forestwatch.org. We want to uplift your voices and connect you with elected officials.