This morning, the California State Senate Local Government Committee held a hearing on Assembly Bill 98 (Carrillo and Reyes), a last-minute bill targeting warehousing. Despite strong opposition from the majority of public comments, the committee passed the bill with a 4-2 vote.
AB 98 (Carrillo and Reyes) imposes statewide mandates on warehouse locations and operations, overriding local control. It requires buffer zones, truck route restrictions, and zero-emission vehicle standards, severely limiting land for logistics use and potentially driving businesses out of California. This could lead to significant job losses, hinder economic growth, and worsen environmental outcomes due to increased transportation needs. The bill’s rigid requirements and lack of flexibility, such as no sunset clause and burdensome affordable housing provisions, could stifle industrial development and harm local economies.
With only three days left in the current state legislative session, AB 98 is expected to be heard on the Senate floor within the next 24 hours. If this bill passes in both Assembly and Senate by August 31st, Governor Newsom will have until September 30th to sign or veto the bill.
We need your continued action to help stop this bill! Please contact your California State Senator as soon as possible and urge them to vote NO on AB 98. Your voice is crucial in ensuring that this bill does not pass and that our industry, local economies, and jobs are protected. Click here to find your representatives.
Sample messaging when contacting your representative can be found below. You may also reference the REVISED coalition opposition letter which is linked below:
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. Together, we continue to make a meaningful impact and safeguard our industry from harmful legislation.
SAMPLE MESSAGING:
On behalf of the commercial real estate industry, I am writing to express our strong opposition to AB 98 (Carrillo and Reyes) which sets severe limitations on warehouse development. This last-minute gut and amend imposes statewide mandates on warehouse locations and operations, overriding local control. It requires buffer zones, truck route restrictions, and zero-emission vehicle standards, severely limiting land for logistics use and potentially driving businesses out of California. This could lead to significant job losses, hinder economic growth, and worsen environmental outcomes due to increased transportation needs. The bill’s rigid requirements and lack of flexibility, such as no sunset clause and burdensome affordable housing provisions, could stifle industrial development and harm local economies. We urge you to oppose AB 98.