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AB2234

California Environmental Quality Act: geothermal exploratory projects.

Chamber Passed·5/27/26

California AB2234 amends the California Environmental Quality Act to regulate geothermal exploratory projects.

California AB2234 modifies the California Environmental Quality Act by adding provisions for geothermal exploratory projects. These projects, defined as those involving up to six wells, must demonstrate they will not degrade existing commercial geothermal resources. The bill requires ongoing monitoring and financial assurances to safeguard geothermal resources. It also mandates that such projects be located at least half a mile from commercial geothermal wells, unless the latter's owner consents. The Geologic Energy Management Division retains its authority over well permitting.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Last
Passed the Assembly · 7–0 · May 27
Current
Appropriations Committee
Next
Senate floor vote

Sponsors

D
1
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

7 Yea

DDDDDRR

0 Nay

Calendar

Jul 1

9:00 AM

Senate Natural Resources and Water Hearing

Jun 24

9:00 AM

Senate Environmental Quality Hearing

History

Jul 6

Senate

From committee: Amend, and do pass as amended and re-refer to Com. on APPR. (Ayes 7. Noes 0.) (July 1).

Jul 6

Senate

Read second time and amended. Re-referred to Com. on APPR.

Jun 24

Senate

From committee: Do pass and re-refer to Com. on N.R. & W. (Ayes 6. Noes 0.) (June 24). Re-referred to Com. on N.R. & W.