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Senate committee backs making Habitat Conservation Fund permanent
Summary
A Senate Natural Resources and Water subcommittee recommended SB 427, which would remove the 2030 sunset on California’s Habitat Conservation Fund (HCF), citing the program’s multi‑decade record protecting habitat, creating jobs and improving public access to nature.
Senator Blake Spear, author of SB 427, told the Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee that the Habitat Conservation Fund (HCF) has protected more than 1.2 million acres of habitat since voter approval of Proposition 117 in 1990 and that the bill would remove the current July 1, 2030, sunset date on the fund to “offer a necessary, consistent, and reliable revenue source for conservation efforts across the state.”
The bill’s supporters told the committee the HCF helps conserve wildlife corridors, improve climate resilience and expand outdoor access in urban and rural communities. “When conservancies, park districts, and other recipients receive HCF funding, it can create opportunities for private investment and matching grants that go well beyond the benefits of the state's upfront contributions,” said Natalie Brown, environmental policy advocate with the Planning and Conservation League.
SB 427 would preserve the annual general‑fund transfer originally required by Proposition 117. Sponsor and cosponsor testimony emphasized projects funded in multiple regions: acquisitions in San Diego and Carlsbad, trail and restoration work in Los Angeles and Riverside counties, and salmon and steelhead habitat efforts in Shasta County. Michael Chen of Audubon California said the fund supports a range of public benefits beyond habitat protection, including recreation, flood protection and outdoor education.
Committee members expressed broad support. Senator Laird called the bill “a small number in the bill, but it is very significant — a foot in the door,” and Vice Chair Seardo said continued funding is critical to avoid project delays and rising costs. The author said the bill responds in part to last year’s budget debates when proposals surfaced to sweep the fund, and removing the sunset would signal continued state commitment.
The committee moved the file and the item was left on call pending absent members; the motion to move the file was made by Senator Laird and recorded as left on call. The bill was presented with a number of organizational cosponsors and supporters in the hearing room.
SB 427 will next be considered by the Committee on Appropriations as a "due pass" referral.
