CALIFORNIA LAWMAKER REVISES CONTENTIOUS BROWNFIELDS BILL

California state Sen. Martha Escutia (D) has unveiled a revamped version of legislation aimed at spurring the redevelopment of contaminated "brownfields" properties. The bill, SB 324, provides local entities with the power to order site investigations while calling for cleanup standards "to encourage and require" restoration of brownfields. The bill would create an account from the state's general fund to provide affordable liability insurance for property owners. SB 324 is scheduled to be heard June 27 by the California Assembly...