(SACRAMENTO) – Legislation authored by Assemblymember Timothy S. Grayson (D-Concord) to improve public safety and protect the environment received unanimous support during their respective Senate policy committee hearings today.
AB 2163, which will protect California’s residents and underground utility lines from potential harm, passed the Senate Governmental Organization Committee. The bill requires the Department of Technology Services to share its Geographic Information System (GIS) map data with 811 “Call Before You Dig” regional notification centers, such as the Northern/Central California 811 Headquarters in Concord.
“As a licensed contractor, I know it is impossible to overstate the importance of having the precise location of underground utility lines marked before a shovel is put to the ground,” said Assemblymember Grayson upon the bill’s passage. “This bill will benefit all stakeholders in damage and injury prevention efforts by making the most current and accurate information about the location of utility infrastructure available to excavators through 811 centers.”
The second bill, AB 2470, which passed the Senate Natural Resources Committee, protects California’s environment by establishing a coordinated effort to prevent the spread and introduction of invasive species.
“Some of the most beautiful parks, trails, and coastlines are found right here in California, which is why it is imperative that government works effectively to protect our unique natural heritage,” said Assemblymember Grayson. “Invasive species do not stop at property lines or recognize political boundaries, and this bill will bring state agencies, local organizations, and scientists together at one table and give them the platform necessary to fight the spread of harmful invasive species.”
AB 2163 will proceed to the Senate floor while AB 2470 will next be heard in the Senate Committee on Agriculture later this summer.
Tim Grayson represents the 14th Assembly District that includes the communities of Benicia, Concord, Clayton, Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Vallejo, Pittsburg and Walnut Creek. For more information please visit the Assemblymember’s website, www.assembly.ca.gov/a14.