To Members of the California State Assembly:

I am returning Assembly Bill 2333 without my signature.

This bill would require the Southern California Association of Governments to provide a fair share distribution of the burdens of commercial aviation when compiling the aviation component of its Regional Transportation Plan. The bill would also require the Association to adhere to the principles of environmental justice.

I concur with the author that the potential adverse impacts of airport expansion require the consideration of regional strategies to decentralize aviation demand. This demand will likely be met by the expansion of existing commercial airports and the development of former military air bases. However, the term "fair share distribution" of commercial aviation burdens is not defined in this bill. As such, I am concerned the Association’s interpretation may be vulnerable to challenge by other regional participants.

While this bill is intended to bring about a more balanced distribution of the expected increase in aviation traffic, it also ignores the will of many Orange County residents. On two occasions the voters have rejected a new international airport at the former El Toro Marine Base. In addition, this bill imposes additional requirements upon the Association, resulting in a state mandated local program at a time when we must avoid the costs of expanded initiatives.

For these reasons I am unable to sign this legislation.

Sincerely,
 

GRAY DAVIS