Overview

• State Senator Steve Padilla introduced SB 534 to create a green empowerment zone to oversee investments and workforce development in the Salton Sea area.
• The proposed board would include local, tribal, academic, and private sector representatives to guide renewable energy projects and ensure equitable benefits.
• Advocacy groups, including Comite Civico Del Valle, continue to push for stronger environmental safeguards and meaningful tribal consultation in lithium mining projects.
• The Hell’s Kitchen lithium project, approved in January, remains under appeal due to concerns over water use, air quality, and lack of tribal engagement.
• Nearly $500 million in state and federal funds are already allocated to the Salton Sea Conservancy for habitat restoration and ecological improvements.