Trust for Public Land Statement on the Proposed Historic Climate Bond for California

SACRAMENTO, CA - Trust for Public LandVice President of the Pacific Region and California State Director Guillermo Rodriguez released the following statement after the California State Legislature successfully moved forward a $10 billion climate bondthat will be presented to voters for approval in November:

"Trust for Public Land applauds the California State Legislature in moving forward a historic climate bond that will be presented to voters this November and Governor Newsom for his leadership in helping to address California's climate challenges. This bipartisan measure would connect more people to parks and open spaces and marks a monumental opportunity for the people of California to address the urgent challenges posed by climate change.

The bond's focus on investing in natural and built infrastructure is crucial for creating resilient communities and TPL is particularly encouraged by the provision that at least 40% of the bond will benefit vulnerable and disadvantaged communities, advancing environmental justice by ensuring that those most affected by climate change receive the support they need. This bond measure would also allow us to improve safe drinking water and air quality, prevent and prepare for future climate disasters like wildfires and drought, while bolstering community resilience.

This bond would allocate $400 million for park creation in underserved communities and the restoration, enhancement, and expansion of park access. Additionally, $870 million will support the 30×30 efforts as part of the Wildlife Conservancy Board, and $415 million will be dedicated to the California Coastal Conservancy. Investments from this bond measure will not only preserve our natural landscapes but also improve the quality of life for all Californians.

TPL thanks legislative leaders in Sacramento, Senate President Pro Tem McGuire, Senators Allen, Becker, Gonzalez, Limón, Portantino, and Stern, as well as Assembly Members Garcia and Wilson for their steadfast dedication towards building a better more climate resilient California. We know the positive impact this bond will have on California communities and TPL will continue to urge voters to support this critical measure in November, and the importance of this historic climate bond for our future."

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About Trust for Public Land 

Trust for Public Land (TPL) is a national nonprofit that works to connect everyone to the benefits and joys of the outdoors. As a leader in equitable access to the outdoors, TPL works with communities to create parks and protect public land where they are needed most. Since 1972, TPL has protected more than 4 million acres of public land, created more than 5,364 parks, trails, schoolyards, and iconic outdoor places, raised $94 billion in public funding for parks and public lands, and connected nearly 9.4 million people to the outdoors. To learn more, visit tpl.org