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Assembly adopts resolution urging state to evaluate climate 'maladaptation' risks
Summary
The Assembly passed Senate Concurrent Resolution 50 asking state agencies to examine criteria to identify maladaptation and ensure climate policies avoid unintended harms, with proponents citing estimated cost savings from resilience investments.
The California State Assembly on June 4, 2025, adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution 50 (SCR 50), which urges the governor's Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation to examine regulatory efforts to define and identify maladaptation and recommend criteria for agency review of climate-responsive policies and investments.
Assemblymember Schulz presented the resolution on behalf of Senator Henry Stern, saying maladaptation refers to actions that can increase climate-related risks or shift vulnerability. Schulz cited examples such as concrete flood channels that reduced stormwater capture and groundwater recharge, and argued for consistent statewide criteria to reduce the risk of unintended consequences from resilience projects.
Schulz cited studies estimating cost savings and losses: the U.S. Chamber of Commerce estimate that "for each dollar invested in climate resiliency preparation, $13 are saved in economic costs" and Los Angeles County figures estimating billions in losses from wildfires and heat events. The resolution says California should prioritize resilience planning and avoid policies that increase future vulnerability.
SCR 50 was adopted by voice vote; the clerk recorded "The ayes have it" and the resolution was adopted without objection.
The resolution directs the governor's office to examine existing regulatory approaches and suggest criteria; it does not itself impose regulatory requirements or appropriate funds.
