From protecting wetlands for both birds and communities to creating the Salton Sea Conservancy, we have two incredible policy wins to celebrate. These victories are thanks to dedicated California legislators, our partners, and every Audubon supporter who let their representatives know they stand firmly behind California’s biodiversity, birds, communities, and the future we build together.
Together you took 14,404 actions, whether sending letters to your representatives or urging Governor Newsom to sign these bills into law. Today, we celebrate because our collective voices were heard!
Audubon-Backed Policy Wins in 2024:
AB 2875: No Net Loss of Wetlands
AB 2875, authored by Assemblymember Laura Friedman and co-sponsored by Audubon California, codifies California’s “no net loss” of wetlands policy, originally established by executive order in 1993. As many of you know, we’ve already lost over 90% of our state’s historic wetlands. With wetlands continuing to disappear over the past three decades due to development, this legislation strengthens protections and promotes the conservation of crucial wetlands.
SB 583: Salton Sea Conservancy
SB 583, authored by Senator Steve Padilla, creates the Salton Sea Conservancy, marking a significant milestone in long-term efforts to restore and manage the Salton Sea. The Conservancy will unite and coordinate initiatives to protect public health, while providing critical habitat for shorebirds and shallow-feeding ducks, safeguarding a vital ecosystem for millions of birds.
AB 828: Governor Newsom Overrides the State Legislature to Deny Groundwater Protections to Disadvantaged Communities and the Environment
AB 828, introduced by Assemblymember Damon Connolly and co-sponsored by Audubon California and Clean Water Action, aimed to protect small community water systems and managed wetlands from harmful pumping reductions under the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). By preserving wetlands that provide critical habitats for migratory birds and other wildlife, this bill sought to secure biodiversity and safeguard community water access.
Unfortunately, last Wednesday, Governor Newsom vetoed AB 828, despite strong legislative support and the state’s established commitment to protecting drinking water access and wetland habitats. We are deeply grateful to supporters like you who raised their voices for communities, birds, and the biodiversity of the Central Valley. Without your advocacy, AB 828, AB 2875, and SB 583 may never have reached the Governor’s desk. Audubon California and our partners remain committed to the fight to protect California’s last wetlands.
Your Voice Matters
The people and birds of California still need your advocacy.
Let’s continue the momentum by raising our voices all the way to the ballot box in November to vote YES on Prop 4 (the Climate Bond). This historic measure represents the largest public investment in climate resilience in California’s history. Learn more to show up for birds, for people, and our shared future.
Mike Lynes
Policy Director, Audubon California |
