In the midst of the pandemic, the nation's supply chain became strained and disrupted resulting in shortages of medical supplies to everyday necessities. To improve the flow of the supply chain, ease congestion at the ports and fast track needed freight transportation infrastructure in California, Assemblyman Vince Fong (R – Central Valley) introduced Assembly Bill 2798, and the Governor signed it into law.

"The supply chain crisis has caused an unforeseeable disruption to every aspect of our economy from store shelves to farms to manufacturers, and this law will help get our supply chain back on track," said Assemblyman Vince Fong. "By increasing port capacity to store cargo - goods and needed essentials can more rapidly be delivered to our communities. Local store shelves can be restocked and farmers can export their products to international markets."

Specifically, AB 2798 enacts new, streamlined permitting and approval for freight transportation projects. This law requires approval of short-term freight transportation projects and expedites critical freight transportation projects. This legislation focuses on the removal of shipping containers off of congested docks.

The California Association of Port Authorities and the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association supported this law.

"If there's one thing that has been driven home by our experiences during the pandemic, it is that California needs to vigorously protect the integrity of its supply chain," said Mike Jacob, Vice President & General Counsel of the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association. "We would like to thank Assemblymember Vince Fong, his colleagues, and the Governor for supporting the short-term, common sense local permitting processes in AB 2798 that will provide us with additional flexibility and tools to help us protect our international trade."

"The California Association of Port Authorities applauds Assemblymember Vince Fong and the passage of AB 2798 which will allow the ports flexibility for temporary uses on their own property to help address congestion and expedite cargo," said Martha Miller Executive Director of CAPA. "With the most sophisticated system of ports in the nation, California needs to continue to prioritize their supply chain and this bill provides yet another tool to do that."

Assemblyman Vince Fong represents the 34th Assembly District, encompassing most of Kern County including the communities of Bakersfield, Bear Valley Springs, China Lake, Frazier Park, Golden Hills, Inyokern, Lebec, Oildale, Ridgecrest, Taft and Tehachapi.