BILL NUMBER: AB 2754 VETOED DATE: 09/30/2010 To the Members of the California State Assembly: I am returning Assembly Bill 2754 without my signature. This bill takes a variety of actions with respect to the Governor's Office of Planning and Research (OPR) including creating a planning and clearing house unit, shifting administrative control of the Strategic Growth Council to OPR and establishing a military liaison position at OPR. With the provisions mentioned above, this bill makes generally meritorious changes to OPR. Unfortunately, it also includes provisions that are ill-advised. In addition to adding General Fund costs to the operations at OPR, the bill converts gubernatorial appointees working in the CEQA Clearinghouse (Clearinghouse) at OPR to civil service employees. Although not a policy-making body in itself, the Clearinghouse plays an important role in helping project proponents navigate California's complex environmental laws. The people working in that unit need to reflect the priorities of the Governor as they undertake their duties and thus it is necessary that they remain gubernatorial appointees. For these reasons, I am unable to sign this bill. Sincerely, Arnold Schwarzenegger