News Archive

California lawmakers take up general aviation issues

June 9, 2004 — The California legislature, still grappling with state budget issues, has taken up two measures impacting the state's pilot community.

The Assembly Budget Committee on a 17-10 vote approved A.B. 2107 eliminating the 90-day "grace period" from the state's sales and use tax for vehicles, vessels, and aircraft purchased outside the state. Last year, AOPA opposition helped stall a similar measure, and AOPA is working with allies in the recreational boat and vehicle industries to block 2107.

The state assembly unanimously approved A.B. 2430, authored by Assemblywoman Pat Wiggins (D-Santa Rosa), a measure eliminating liability insurance requirements for hot air balloon operators and removes the state's Public Utility Commission from oversight of the hot air balloon industry. AOPA this week urged support for the measure that the Senate Energy Committee approved on a 6-0 vote.