Transportation projects: barriers to wildlife movement.

Assembly Member Schultz's wildlife connectivity legislation requires local transportation agencies to incorporate wildlife passage features into infrastructure projects that could impair animal movement patterns. The measure applies to projects initiated after January 1, 2026 in designated connectivity areas, though it exempts state highway projects where Caltrans serves as lead agency.

The bill authorizes agencies to fulfill these requirements through compensatory mitigation credits, provided the Department of Fish and Wildlife approves their use. This provision offers flexibility while maintaining oversight of wildlife protection measures. For projects falling under the mandate, lead agencies must evaluate potential barriers to wildlife movement and implement appropriate passage features to maintain habitat connectivity.

The legislation stems from findings that transportation infrastructure can fragment wildlife habitats and disrupt species' ability to access food, water, and mates - challenges that climate change may intensify as animals need to shift their ranges. It builds upon the state's Safe Roads and Wildlife Protection Act by extending similar requirements to regional transportation authorities. The measure includes provisions for state reimbursement of local agency compliance costs if determined necessary by the Commission on State Mandates.