Committee moves bill to clarify geologic hazard mapping to include climate‑exacerbated conditions

SB 831, which clarifies the California Geological Survey’s scope by listing climate‑exacerbated conditions as geologic hazards, received a due‑pass recommendation to Appropriations from the Assembly Natural Resources Committee.

The bill’s presenter said the amendment to the definition of geologic hazards would explicitly enumerate conditions such as post‑fire debris flows, subsidence and inland coastal erosion that are becoming more frequent or severe as a result of climate change. Supporters said clearer statutory language will help state and local planning prioritize mapping and resources in hazard‑prone areas.

Adam Harper, senior director of policy at the California Construction and Industrial Materials Association, testified in support and described the California Geological Survey as a long‑standing institution that provides post‑fire slope stability analysis, mapping of mineral resources and identification of zones such as liquefaction risk areas.

Committee members asked whether the bill would cover recent local situations, such as landslide movements on Palos Verdes; presenters confirmed the bill’s language would clarify the survey’s coastal erosion and other duties. The committee voted to refer the bill to Appropriations with a due‑pass recommendation.