Senator Seyarto's proposal for evaluating potential reforms to California's environmental review process directs the Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation to examine how maintaining consistent regulatory guidelines throughout project reviews could affect the state's environmental assessment procedures.

The legislation calls for a comprehensive study of "locked-in guidelines" - a proposed approach where California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requirements in place when a project's notice of preparation is issued would remain applicable throughout its review, regardless of subsequent regulatory changes. The study must analyze how this approach could affect regulatory certainty, review timelines, and environmental protection measures. The office would evaluate potential impacts on project proponents, lead agencies, and other stakeholders, including financial implications of mid-review guideline changes under current procedures.

By January 2027, the office must submit findings and recommendations to the Governor and Legislature regarding whether locked-in guidelines could provide more predictable review processes while maintaining environmental safeguards. The study will also identify best practices for balancing consistent regulation with adaptability to emerging environmental challenges. These provisions would expire on January 1, 2028, following the report's completion.