WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

AB 39

General plans: Local Electrification Planning Act.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ben Allen and 2 co-sponsors

AB 39 requires cities with over 75,000 residents to create electrification plans by 2030, boosting EV infrastructure and supporting disadvantaged communities.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 356, Statutes of 2025.
#generalplans #localelectrificationplanningact
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · AB 39

Summary of AB 39: Local Electrification Planning Act

Overview

Bill Number: AB 39
Title: Local Electrification Planning Act
Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 356, Statutes of 2025
Introduced: February 17, 2025
Effective Date: On or after January 1, 2027, but no later than January 1, 2030

Purpose

The Local Electrification Planning Act aims to enhance local electrification efforts across California by mandating cities and counties to develop comprehensive electrification plans. These plans will focus on expanding electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and promoting zero-emission technologies, particularly benefiting disadvantaged communities and low-income households.

Key Provisions

  • Plan Requirement: Each city, county, or city and county with a population greater than 75,000 must prepare and adopt an electrification plan by January 1, 2030. This plan can be integrated into the next revision of the local general plan.

  • Plan Components: The electrification plan must include:

    • Goals and Objectives: Locally based goals, objectives, and policies for electrification.
    • Infrastructure Expansion: Identification of opportunities to expand EV charging stations and zero-emission vehicle fueling infrastructure.
    • Building Electrification: Strategies for the electrification and decarbonization of new and existing buildings, including incentives for property owners and low-income households.
    • Energy Resources: Opportunities to expand renewable energy resources, such as rooftop solar and battery storage.
    • Infrastructure Needs: Identification of areas needing infrastructure upgrades to support medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicle fleets.
    • Equitable Investments: Policies addressing the needs of disadvantaged communities and small businesses for prioritized investments in zero-emission technologies.

  • Existing Plans: Cities and counties may designate previously adopted plans that meet the new requirements, allowing for flexibility in compliance.

  • State Mandate: The bill establishes a state-mandated local program, increasing the duties of local public officials.

Impact

  • Target Population: The provisions specifically apply to local governments with populations over 75,000, ensuring that larger communities are equipped to handle the transition to electrification.

  • Equity Focus: The bill emphasizes equitable access to zero-emission technologies, aiming to directly benefit disadvantaged communities and low-income households.

  • Statewide Concern: The legislation is framed as addressing a matter of statewide concern, thus applying to all cities, including charter cities.

Procedural Aspects

  • No Reimbursement Required: The bill specifies that no reimbursement is required for local agencies or school districts for costs mandated by the state, as the requirements are considered part of existing local planning duties.

  • Implementation Timeline: Local governments are given a timeline to prepare and adopt their plans, with a deadline set between January 1, 2027, and January 1, 2030.

Conclusion

AB 39 represents a significant step towards enhancing California's electrification efforts, focusing on sustainable development and equitable access to zero-emission technologies. By mandating local governments to adopt comprehensive electrification plans, the state aims to foster a cleaner, more sustainable future while addressing the needs of its most vulnerable populations.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.