State Climate Change Legislation: AB 32 & SB 375
With the passage of Assembly Bill 32 in 2006 and Senate Bill 375 in 2008, California remains at the forefront in the fight against climate change. Pursuant to SB 375, the Kings County Association of Governments must demonstrate how our region will reduce greenhouse gases by 5% in 2020 and 10% in 2035 in a document known as a Sustainable Communities Strategy. This document was released in conjunction with our 2014 Regional Transportation Plan.
Regional Climate Action Plan
The cities of Avenal and Hanford, with grant facilitation by Kings County Association of Governments participated in a collaborative planning effort to develop a Regional Climate Action Plan. This Plan identified cost-effective measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in a way that strengthens the local communities, ensures economic vitality, and allows the natural environment to thrive. The Plan was developed in a transparent manner, based on local data and extensive public input from community members, stakeholders, and elected officials to ensure that it is unique to our rural jurisdictions.
The Final Regional Climate Action Plan was accepted by the City of Avenal on May 8, 2014 and by the City of Hanford on May 27, 2014.
Climate Change and Public Health
Modes of transportation that require physical activity like bicycling and walking are known as active transportation. Improving public health is one of the key goals of increasing active transportation in Kings County. As our nation continues to combat an unprecedented obesity problem, active transportation is an easy way to help individuals manage their weight, improve their health, and benefit their air quality. KCAG works closely with the Kings County Department of Public Health and the Kings County Diabesity Coalition to promote active transportation in our communities.
