The bill’s sponsors say it’s only fair to extend tax relief to Californians who don’t own cars as the state aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and decrease driving.

A bill proposed by California State Senator Anthony Portantino (D – La Cañada/Flintridge) and sponsored by Streets for All would offer a $2,500 per person tax credit to taxpayers who don’t own cars or whose households have fewer cars than people. According to an article by Melanie Curry in Streetsblog California, “It’s a stimulus aimed at people who need it most – those who cannot afford a car – as well as an incentive for everyone to reduce dependence on cars.”
With the transportation sector as the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in the state, “California is investing a lot of money into helping drivers transition to electric vehicles, via direct incentives to car buyers, building infrastructure, and tax breaks for electric car owners.” But according to the state’s Air Resources Board, “Californians will need to drive less, full stop.”
As Curry notes, “Better transit and safer bike and pedestrian infrastructure will be absolutely be necessary. But millions of Californians do get by without owning cars, either because they can’t afford one or don’t want to add a further burden to the environment. This bill would reward people for living car-free or ‘car-light,’ and encourage more people to do so.”
FULL STORY: New Bill Would Create an Incentive to Go Car-Free in California

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

Washington Legislature Passes Rent Increase Cap
A bill that caps rent increases at 7 percent plus inflation is headed to the governor’s desk.

From Planning to Action: How LA County Is Rethinking Climate Resilience
Chief Sustainability Officer Rita Kampalath outlines the County’s shift from planning to implementation in its climate resilience efforts, emphasizing cross-departmental coordination, updated recovery strategies, and the need for flexible funding.

New Mexico Aging Department Commits to Helping Seniors Age ‘In Place’ and ‘Autonomously’ in New Draft Plan
As New Mexico’s population of seniors continues to grow, the state’s aging department is proposing expanded initiatives to help seniors maintain their autonomy while also supporting family caregivers.
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