A Major Reform of California’s Environmental Regulations Looks Destined for Failure

Proposition 45, a proposed overhaul of California’s environmental review rules, appears headed for defeat, a setback for efforts to speed up development in the state. With about 65 per cent of votes counted, 45.1 per cent supported it and 54.9 per cent opposed it, though the official result has not been called.

The measure would have offered an optional, faster review process for projects including energy and water infrastructure, highways and housing, with deadlines for reviews and court challenges. It would still have required environmental review, but limited assessments to compliance with objective regulations and narrowed the grounds for lawsuits. The proposal faced opposition from environmental groups and unions, while housing advocates were divided, including over its potential to enable more suburban development.