CalEPA Spotlight

Free Conference: Online Environmental Engagement During the COVID-19 Crisis 

Learn how to use digital engagement tools to plan and participate in online meetings during the COVID-19 crisis. Hear from state, local, tribal and community leaders, as well as international engagement experts on how organizations are adapting and what it means for environmental justice and equity. California Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot and CalEPA Secretary Jared Blumenfeld invite the public to participate in a three-day, Building Our Skills Together Online conference. To participate, access presentation materials and watch on CalEPA’s Public Meeting Live Webcasts.

News & Updates 

California and 22 other states take Trump Administration to court over vehicle emissions rollback

Today, California joined 22 other states and several other jurisdictions to challenge the Trump Administration’s planPDF download to roll back vehicle emissions standards. Since these emission rules were enacted, they have reduced air pollution and protected the air our children breathe. Read the press release. (5/27/20)

CalEPA Urges U.S. EPA to Abandon Proposed “Dangerous and Unworkable” Science Standard

CalEPA Secretary Jared Blumenfeld today issued a statement on the agency’s comments submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regarding its proposed rulemaking: “Strengthening Transparency in Science.” See the statement. (5/21/20)

California’s Department of Pesticide Regulation Issues Pesticide Enforcement Guidance Amid COVID-19 Pandemic 

The Department of Pesticide Regulation issued guidance today to local county agricultural commissioners on expectations around the enforcement of pesticide regulations near schools and homes amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Read the press release (en español) (5/7/20)

CalEPA Issues Statement on Compliance with Regulatory Requirements During the COVID-19 Emergency

CalEPA will continue to respond, investigate, and – when necessary – take action on complaints related to environmental non-compliance. See full statement. (4/15/20) 

CalEPA Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Earth Day Online

Throughout April, CalEPA and its boards, departments, and office engaged the public in an interactive online campaign focused on how individual actions make a collective difference for the health of our planet and the well-being of Californians and their communities. Read the press release and see videos, activities for kids, and tips for the home at CalEPA’s Earth Day webpage. (4/6/20)

Governor Issues Water Shutoff Order and Takes Steps to Maintain Delivery of Critical Water Services During COVID-19 Crisis

Building on efforts to provide support for residents during the statewide State of Emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Newsom today suspended public water systems’ ability to disconnect water service to residences and critical infrastructure sector small businesses. Read the press release. (en español) (4/2/20)

The Public is Advised to NOT Flush Disinfecting Wipes, Paper Towels Down Toilet – Throw Them Away Instead 

While the State Water Board and other public agencies encourage Californians to follow the Centers for Disease Control recommendations to clean surfaces with disinfecting wipes to reduce the spread of COVID-19, it is important to discard those items in the trash, not the toilet. (3/17/20)