The California Native Plant Society (CNPS) is a statewide non-profit organization of amateurs and professionals with a common interest in California's native plants. Its principal aims are to preserve the native flora and to add to the knowledge of members and the public at large.

Biodiversity Initiatives | Native Plant Landscaping | AB 1573

An update from Liv O'Keefe,
CNPS Senior Director Public Affairs

AB 1573 Reaches a Stopping Point

Last week, AB 1573 moved to the Legislature’s inactive file, therein ending its 2023 run. It was derailed by last-minute amendments that gutted the bill in what can only be described as a hostile legislative maneuver by opponents.

AB 1573 was a transformative piece of legislation that would have mandated the use of 25% native plants in public and commercial landscaping. This would have been a win for water conservation (no need to irrigate nonfunctional turf), a boost for biodiversity (plants for insects and wildlife to survive and thrive), and an important step toward bringing people closer to nature in their everyday lives.

Following its introduction, AB 1573 quickly earned the support of dozens of environmental and community organizations, even receiving the attention of the Los Angeles Times' editorial board. Over the summer, AB 1573 passed successfully through the CA State Assembly and the Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee. The Appropriations Committee was the bill’s last stop before a Senate floor vote.

We are truly saddened by what happened to AB 1573—but not discouraged! Thanks to all of you who reached out to your legislators and others in support. Read our detailed account of what happened, and stay tuned for more in our blog series looking ahead.
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