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Bill

SB 1398

State agencies: building and renovation projects: Green Globes certification.

2025-2026 Regular Session

California state agencies must obtain Green Globes certification for building and renovation projects, mandating sustainable construction standards for state-funded construction work.

Referred to Com. on G.O.
#greenglobescertification #stateagencies #buildingandrenovationprojects
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Bill Summary · SB 1398

Legislative bill overview

SB 1398 requires California state agencies to pursue Green Globes certification for building and renovation projects, establishing a sustainability standard for state-funded construction. The bill integrates an alternative green building certification system into state procurement and construction practices.

Why is this important

State building projects represent significant capital expenditures and set precedent for sustainability standards across California. Adopting Green Globes creates market demand for certified sustainable construction practices and influences how state resources are invested in environmental performance, potentially affecting construction costs, contractor requirements, and climate goals.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Green Globes certification requires third-party assessment and may increase project costs; unclear if the bill provides funding or cost-sharing mechanisms
  • Certification flexibility: The bill mandates Green Globes specifically rather than allowing agencies to choose between equivalent systems (LEED, WELL, etc.), potentially limiting design options and competition
  • Implementation burden: State agencies may lack existing expertise or infrastructure to meet certification requirements, requiring new staffing, training, and administrative processes
  • Scope ambiguity: Unclear whether "building and renovation projects" applies to all state construction or only certain categories, creating potential inconsistent application

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

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