Two Takes: Should California pass Prop 45 to limit CEQA reviews for ‘essential’ projects?
A BART train departs the station near the site of a new construction project that will bring modular housing to the El Cerrito BART station, in El Cerrito, Calif., on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Related California is starting the 780 unit development meant to provide affordable housing and increase transit ridership.
TL;DR
- Proposition 45 proposes to streamline CEQA reviews for essential projects, including housing, clean energy infrastructure, roads, and schools.
- Supporters believe it will accelerate the development of clean energy projects needed to meet state climate goals and reduce construction costs.
- Opponents argue that limiting environmental reviews will put public health and air quality at risk, particularly for communities near polluting industries.
- The measure aims to set specific deadlines for permitting, review, and litigation processes.
- Concerns exist that Prop 45 could lead to increased sprawl and may not result in direct savings for consumers.
- The debate highlights a tension between accelerating development and maintaining robust environmental and public health oversight.