Sacramento - Four measures authored by Assembly Member Jared Huffman were signed into law by the Governor at a press conference this morning highlighting the newest environmental legislation.  Out of the seven bills signed, four of them belonged to the freshman legislator. AB 1109, AB 1406, AB 1470, and AB 1560 will serve as significant steps in meeting the states greenhouse gas emission standards. The legislation highlighted Huffman’s strong environmental values in which he is so passionate about.

“Passing these types of environmental reforms is the reason I ran for office,” said Huffman. “These bills represent the values of my district and I’m honored to have them put into law.”

• AB 1109 - Energy Efficient Lighting
  One of the most important pieces of legislation this year, this bill directs the California Energy Commission to reduce California’s consumption of electricity for lighting uses by 50% in 10 years.  As part of this strategy, would phase out the purchase by state government of inefficient lighting sources.  Also establishes mercury and lead reduction standards for lighting. 

• AB 1470 - Solar Thermal
  This breakthrough legislation creates a ten-year statewide incentive program to drive half a million California consumers toward solar heating technologies that directly displace the use of natural gas for water and space heating in homes and businesses.
  
  
• AB 1406- Recycled water - Condos
  This bill encourages water reuse by permitting the use of recycled water in condominiums, as it is currently used in apartment buildings.
  
  
• AB 1560 - Water Conservation - building standards
  Creates an important new standard of water conservation by requiring the Energy Commission to prescribe water preservation standards for new residential and non-residential buildings.

Two other pieces of legislation authored by Huffman, AB 28 and AB 463, were signed by the Governor earlier this week.  AB 28 extends the sunset date for the successful California Breast Cancer Research Fund tax check-off program which is set to expire next year.  AB 463 allows handicap drivers of vehicles with side loading lifts or ramps to use two adjacent parking stalls in private parking lots when existing van accessible handicap parking spaces are occupied.