Governor Newsom signed into law AB 1056 by Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura). The bill—sponsored by Oceana and Resource Renewal Institute (RRI)—protects ocean biodiversity off California’s shores by phasing out the use of set gillnets—mile-long nets anchored to the seafloor to catch California halibut and white sea bass. By removing this gear, the law will protect more than 100 different ocean animals that become entangled in these nearly invisible nets.

Two last-minute “trailer bills” expected to fast-track the Delta Conveyance Project and weaken public review of the Bay-Delta Water Quality Control Plan were stopped in their tracks. These measures would have sidelined Tribes, erased environmental protections, and given a blank check to corporate water contractors.

Last week, we joined advocates at the Capitol for Lobby Day to stand against two budget bills that put California’s water and ecosystems at risk, while disempowering communities and weakening long-standing environmental protections.

Last week, our Director of Advocacy, Scott Webb, joined over 100 advocates at the State Capitol for a full day of legislative action with the Green California Network. We met policymakers, amplified environmental priorities, and advocated for our ocean, communities, and climate.

RRI and 40 marine groups oppose reconciliation bill mandating 30 offshore lease sales while gutting NOAA funding and weakening marine wildlife protections.

Leaders of the Legislative Delta Caucus and statewide organizations stood united together today during a press conference to denounce Governor Newsom’s budget proposal to fast-track the Delta Tunnel Project and encourage fellow legislators to oppose any plan to accelerate construction of the $20 billion-plus, destructive tunnel. The project is receiving widespread opposition from leaders throughout the state, especially those in the Delta whose 4 million residents would be most directly impacted. Here’s what they are saying:

Resource Renewal Institute and Oceana are joining forces to co-sponsor a state assembly bill that will bring greater protection to coastal marine wildlife.