Summary
The Commission voted to support AB 2734 (Hart), which would revise the revenue allocation for Whale Tail license plates to ensure that 100% of proceeds support coastal access, education, and stewardship grants — split evenly between the Commission's Whale Tail Grant program and the Coastal Conservancy's Explore the Coast program. ActCoastal member Salted Roots is a bill sponsor, as is Surf Justice Collective member Outdoor Outreach.
The Commission voted unanimously to support AB 2734.
Why You Should Care
Currently, the Commission receives only 25% of the approximately $2 million in annual Whale Tail plate revenues. The remainder goes to the Environmental License Plate Fund — already well-funded, having earned $48.6 million in 2025 from the popular CA legacy plate alone. AB 2734 would direct approximately $1 million in additional funding to the Commission's public education programs.
At least 25% of Whale Tail grants are microgrants valued at $25,000 or less — critical for small organizations and first-time grantees building a track record for larger funding down the road. All Whale Tail grants include an educational component, and over 95% support communities of color and disproportionately burdened communities facing barriers to coastal access and outdoor education.
Outcome
Pro-Coast Vote
Anti-Coast Vote
Organizations in Support
Salted Roots, Outdoor Outreach, California Coastal Protection Network
Organizations Opposed
Decision Type
Staff Recommendation
Support Legislation