AB 1319 would create process to evaluate federal rollbacks and consider state listings under CESA

Assemblymember Schultz presented AB 1319 to create an expedited, orderly process at the Fish and Game Commission to evaluate federally protected species if federal rules reduce protections. The bill would direct the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) to produce periodic reports identifying species whose federal protections had decreased so the commission could consider emergency candidate status and, if appropriate, adopt regulations to provide California protection.

Supporters, including Defenders of Wildlife and Audubon California, said federal actions and draft rules had signaled a rollback of protections and that California needs a process to respond proactively. Pamela Flick told the committee the bill "would direct CDFW to prepare quarterly reports on which species have experienced a decrease in federal protections," enabling the commission to consider emergency regulations and then regular listing processes.

Opponents — including water districts, business groups and agricultural organizations — said the bill could create uncertainty for permittees and impose significant fiscal and staffing burdens on CDFW, which some witnesses said is already understaffed. They urged tighter scope or a focus on federal delisting rather than a broad list of federal actions.

The committee voted to pass AB 1319 as amended to the Senate Appropriations Committee. (Tally recorded in the hearing: yes 4, no 1 left on call.)