New Beginnings and Old Commitments

Last month, our Acting Director Jason John shared that I’d be joining Sierra Club California as the new Acting Director. I am a longtime member and volunteer with the Club, and am looking forward to getting to know as many of you as possible as we close out this year’s legislative session. You can read my full bio on our website. It’s been a busy first month, and the next few months are looking equally productive. Here are just a few of the projects I’ve been working on with the rest of the Sierra Club California staff.

First and foremost, I am thrilled to announce that just this week the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded a grant of nearly $500 million to the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) for the development of heavy-duty electric vehicle charging infrastructure through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Yassi Kavezade, Senior Campaign Advisor for the Clean Transportation for All joined in the press conference on Monday, July 22, with Senator Alex Padilla and board members from the AQMD. This is a huge step forward in our efforts to reduce transportation emissions and transition to a cleaner energy future. This funding is part of a larger $1.18 billion initiative across the country aimed at addressing transportation emissions, and all part of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) initiative passed by the Biden administration.

The biggest development on the horizon is Climate Bond (Prop 4), which is aimed at shoring up climate funding for key water, wildfire prevention, and clean air programs. Our volunteer committees and policy staff are diligently reviewing the details of the bond, and we will be sharing updates on it soon.

Finishing up the legislative summer break, I encourage you to stay engaged and active in our in-district advocacy efforts. Meeting in district with your local legislator is a crucial way to make your voice heard on the environmental issues that matter to you most, and your support helps us build momentum for our priority bills. If you’re interested in learning more about our in-district lobbying program and how you get involved, please reach out to our Policy Strategist Jakob Evans or sign-up at our website.

I’m tremendously excited to keep working with our dedicated policy staff, volunteers, and supporters like you to address the impacts of the climate crisis across California, and ensure access to our state’s clean lands and water for generations to come. We’re working tirelessly to ensure Sierra Club California continues to be the boldest voice for the environment at our state’s capitol.

I want to thank you for your continued support and engagement with Sierra Club California. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the environment and create a better future for all Californians. If you have any questions or would like to get involved in our efforts, please don't hesitate to reach out. I look forward to working with each of you as we continue this important work.

Sincerely, 
Bobbi Jo Chavarria
Acting Director