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Assembly committee backs AB 72 to expand EV manufacturing jobs in Riverside County
Summary
The Assembly Economic Development, Growth and Household Impact Committee voted 7-0 to refer AB 72 to the Appropriations Committee. Authored by Dr. Jackson, the bill would direct the state labor agency to work with Riverside County to boost electric-vehicle manufacturing jobs and related training in the Inland Empire.
Dr. Jackson, the bill's author, told the California State Assembly Economic Development, Growth and Household Impact Committee that AB 72 would direct the state Labor and Workforce Development Agency to work with Riverside County to make electric-vehicle manufacturing jobs and training more accessible.
"AB 72 in brief would direct the California's Labor Workforce and Development Agency to work with the county of Riverside to make electric vehicle manufacturing jobs and education more accessible in one of the fastest growing regions in the state," Jackson said during his presentation to the committee.
Jackson argued that technology-proof jobs tied to EV manufacturing and battery supply chains are unevenly distributed across California and that many Inland Empire residents travel long distances for livable-wage positions. He cited the region's proximity to higher-education institutions and nearby lithium deposits near the Salton Sea as reasons the area is well positioned for manufacturing growth.
Member Paternos praised the proposal, saying it would help residents find local work instead of commuting. "Helping people from Riverside, Inland Empire, to stay local where they don't have to commute is huge," Paternos said.
After brief discussion and no in-room public testimony, a committee member moved and another seconded the committee recommendation of "do pass to Appropriations." The motion was recorded as moved by Petrie Norris and seconded by Wallace. The committee conducted a roll-call vote and recorded seven ayes and no no votes; the chair announced the measure was referred to the Appropriations Committee by a 7-0 vote.
The hearing opened with procedural instructions for witnesses — primary witnesses were limited to two minutes and must be registered and accompanied by the author — and the committee adopted its consent calendar earlier in the session. The committee adjourned after the AB 72 disposition.
Next steps: AB 72 is scheduled to be considered by the Assembly Appropriations Committee, per the committee referral.
