Los Angeles County, California is dedicated to safeguarding the environment and advancing environmental justice. To this end, the county has implemented a range of programs and tools to ensure that its citizens can enjoy a safe and healthy environment. These include the Cannabis Compliance and Enforcement Program, the Preventing Childhood Lead Poisoning Program, Cross-Connections and Controlling Water Contamination, Drinking Water, and Land Use initiatives. These initiatives are designed to identify policies that reduce health risks in disadvantaged communities, prioritize programs that address their needs, and encourage community participation in decision-making processes. The county also utilizes the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to ensure that any new projects are reviewed for potential significant environmental impacts on already burdened communities.
In addition, SB 1000 requires all cities and counties in California with a disadvantaged community to address environmental justice in their overall plan. Attorney General Bonta has also intervened in a lawsuit to defend the South Coast Air Quality Management District's rule that limits pollution from warehouses in Los Angeles and the Inland Empire. The Office of Environmental Justice has compiled best practices and mitigation measures to help local governments comply with the CEQA and promote the development of environmentally friendly warehouses throughout California. SB 796 (Bradford) allows Los Angeles County to return the lands of Manhattan Beach, known as Bruce's Beach, to the living descendants of the landowners whose land was improperly taken away in the 1920s due to their race. Los Angeles County is committed to protecting its citizens from environmental hazards. Through its various programs, initiatives, and regulations, it is ensuring that its citizens have access to a safe and healthy environment.
The county is also taking steps to ensure that disadvantaged communities are not disproportionately impacted by environmental hazards. By utilizing CEQA and NEPA, as well as other regulations such as SB 1000, it is ensuring that all new projects are reviewed for potential significant environmental impacts on already burdened communities. Additionally, SB 796 (Bradford) is allowing for the return of Bruce's Beach to its rightful owners. Through these efforts, Los Angeles County is demonstrating its commitment to environmental protection and justice.
