Bill would add heat‑mitigation elements to local master plans; debate centers on 'must' vs. 'may' language

Assemblymember Venise Karas introduced Assembly Bill 96 to require cities and counties to include heat‑mitigation elements in their comprehensive master plans. Sponsors and witnesses told the Senate Government Affairs Committee the change would elevate strategies for cooling — including tree canopy, shade structures, public drinking water and designated cooling spaces — to the same planning status that other major infrastructure elements receive.