Committee backs AB 902 to require wildlife connectivity planning for new or widened highways

The committee advanced AB 902, a bill that would require lead agencies to incorporate wildlife connectivity and crossings into transportation projects that create new highways or add lanes to existing highways beginning in 2028.

Assemblymember Schultz presented the bill as a public‑safety and biodiversity measure. Testimony cited data showing thousands of collisions between vehicles and large wildlife species and argued for routine consideration of crossings, fencing and design features such as overpasses and underpasses to reduce wildlife‑vehicle collisions and genetic isolation of populations.

Supporters included coastal and conservation organizations and local managers of open space and parks, who said wildlife crossings can reduce wildlife‑vehicle collisions by up to 98% and protect species while improving public safety. Witnesses described specific local needs, from peninsular bighorn sheep in San Diego to disappearing amphibian populations elsewhere, and said county roads and other non‑state highways currently lack consistent consideration for connectivity.

Committee members discussed funding and project timelines. Some members urged a dedicated funding program rather than relying on transportation project budgets that could be stretched, and emphasized design challenges and species‑specific needs. The bill includes a feasibility test and applies when a project would significantly impact connectivity.

AB 902 passed the committee as amended to appropriations; the committee recorded a favorable tally and left the item on call.