Addis Introduces Legislation to Bolster Community Choice & Environmental Protections in Battery Projects

MORRO BAY-Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) introduced the Battery Energy Safety & Accountability Act (AB 303) to improve safety standards and restore local oversight for energy storage facilities in California. The bill comes on the heels of growing concerns following recent incidents, including the Moss Landing lithium-ion battery facility fire last week.

AB 303 would require critical local engagement in the permitting process for battery or energy storage facilities, and create environmental setback requirements for sensitive areas, including schools, hospitals, and natural habitats.

"AB 303 is a proactive measure that will ensure companies like Vistra go through the normal, local, regulatory process," said Addis "It is designed to build trust, increase safety, and give communities a choice, by restoring local community processes for permitting these projects."

At a press conference in Moss Landing on Thursday, Monterey County Supervisor Glenn Church expressed his full backing of AB 303.

"What we have now are rather haphazard regulations on this relatively new industry," said Church. "I appreciate the aspects inside of it [AB 303] that will allow local control. This is what democracy is all about."

AB 303 now awaits referral to its first policy committee.

Dawn Addis was elected to the California State Assembly in 2022 to represent the coastal 30th Assembly District, which includes San Luis Obispo, Monterey, and Santa Cruz Counties. She is the Chair of the Assembly Budget Subcommittee 1 on Health.

CONTACT: Alexis Garcia-Arrazola, (831) 649-2832