Oil and Tech Money Back Measure to Limit California Environmental Law
California Proposition 45 would reduce environmental review requirements under CEQA for infrastructure and industrial projects, potentially including some data centers. The measure is backed by oil, utility and technology interests, while environmental advocates argue it would weaken public oversight of polluting projects.
Proposition 45 would revise California’s Environmental Quality Act, shortening environmental reviews and limiting opportunities to delay or challenge certain infrastructure projects if voters approve it in November. Supporters say the measure would reduce unnecessary permitting delays for housing, clean energy, wastewater facilities and other projects, while opponents contend it is primarily designed to advance fossil-fuel and carbon-capture developments.
The proposal has attracted substantial financial support from California Resources Corp., utilities and companies with data center interests. California Resources Corp. has partnered with Beacon Data Centers on a proposed 275-megawatt campus powered by its Elk Hills facility, while Prologis is planning five data centers in San Jose and Pacific Gas & Electric Co. is developing mixed-use residential and data center projects there. Environmental advocates, including Last Chance Alliance campaign organizer Woody Little, warn that the measure could weaken environmental protections and public participation.