Community air protection programs: financial support.

Assembly Member Solache proposes dedicating 10% of California's Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund to air quality improvement programs through a continuous appropriation to the State Air Resources Board. The funding would support grants, technical assistance, community participation initiatives, and incentives for specified air quality programs.

The measure modifies Section 39719 of the Health and Safety Code, which currently allocates the fund's annual proceeds across multiple environmental and transportation programs. Under the existing framework, 35% supports transit and sustainable communities programs, 25% funds high-speed rail development, and 5% (up to $130 million annually) goes to safe drinking water initiatives. The Department of Forestry and Fire Protection receives $200 million annually through fiscal year 2028-29, split between forest health programs ($165 million) and prescribed fire projects ($35 million).

The bill maintains these existing allocations while establishing the new 10% appropriation for air quality programs. The calculation of this percentage excludes both the forestry department's annual allocation and funds subject to Section 39719.1. The measure requires a two-thirds vote for passage due to its appropriation provisions.