April 11, 2023
Contact: Robin Tung, Building Decarbonization Coalition, robin@buildingdecarb.org
Sacramento, CA – AB 593 (Haney), which directs the California Energy Commission to develop a plan to cut pollution from the building sector in line with the state’s legally binding climate targets, passed the Assembly Committee on Natural Resources yesterday without any opposing votes, and with strong support from stakeholders including climate and labor representatives.
“California is a national leader in developing policies to cut pollution from homes and buildings. But we still don’t have a comprehensive plan for how state policies, funding, and programs will work together to ensure homes and buildings support our state in meeting California’s climate targets. AB 593 will provide that roadmap and ensure a public process with accountability and milestones,” said Beckie Menten, Senior Regulatory & Policy Specialist Building Decarbonization Coalition.
In California, homes and buildings generate approximately 25% of the state’s greenhouse gas emissions, second only to the transportation sector. In addition to worsening climate change, emissions from buildings create indoor and outdoor pollution, which causes childhood asthma, bronchitis, cancer, and other illnesses linked to gas appliances. Low-income and BIPOC communities are disproportionately harmed by pollution across the state.
Transitioning homes to zero-emission appliances like heat pumps cuts climate pollution while improving air quality in communities. AB 593 will ensure California’s plan for cutting pollution from homes and buildings prioritizes equity for low-income and BIPOC communities and workers, while boosting resilience in the face of climate impacts like extreme heat.
In addition, the bill would also require that California’s emissions reductions strategy prioritize high road workforce development, send a clear market signal to appliance manufacturers and installers, and lessen impacts on ratepayers.
Next, the bill will be analyzed by the Assembly Committee on Appropriations. If passed, AB 593 will need to pass off the Assembly floor by June 2.