Municipal and Public Agency
Municipal and Public Agency
With more than 60 years of experience guiding public agencies through major projects, controversial issues, and ethical crises, Hanson Bridgett is one of the most experienced law firms in California in helping local agencies.
Government agencies require specialized knowledge because they operate under public scrutiny and are subject to multiple layers of local, state, and federal laws and regulations. Our long-standing relationships with agency governing boards, staff, and a diverse set of entities throughout California have given us the institutional knowledge and professional experience needed to anticipate issues that can arise and to develop strategies that address them.
Our Municipal and Public Agency practice serves as both general counsel and special counsel to dozens of public entities across the state, with particularly rich experience in city governance and the transportation & transit, water, wastewater, fire, and health care sectors.
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News & Resources
The EPA Designates Two PFAS Compounds as “Hazardous Substances” Under CERCLA, Triggering Potential Cleanup Liabilities for Private and Public Entities
CERCLA now requires that owners and operators clean up PFOA or PFOS contamination on their properties.
Is Compliance with Air District Regulations Proving to be Difficult?
Businesses can apply for variances to continue operating despite air rule violations. Variances are subject to hearings which resemble courtroom proceedings, where both parties present evidence and public testimony may influence decisions.
The EPA Finalizes PFAS Drinking Water Limits While California Adopts Public Health Goals for PFOA & PFOS, Which Will Have Wide Ranging Effects
The US EPA moves ahead with new PFAS regulations, which affect public water systems, wastewater treatment operators, and contaminated site cleanups.
Amendments to Surplus Land Act Increase Clarity and Flexibility for Public Agencies
Senate Bill 747 and Assembly Bill 480 provide much-needed clarification and increased flexibility for public agencies disposing of surplus property.
Got Governance?
Steven Miller of Hanson Bridgett discusses ethics complaints against a board member and the steps to address the situation.
Inadequate Government Claims Act Notice Sinks Proposition 218 Water Rate Challenge
The Plata v. City of San Jose court decision found that the late charges were not governed by Proposition 218.
Supreme Court Clarifies Application of Procedural Requirements of Proposition 218 to Revenue Measures Adopted by Initiative
Three Important New Actions Taken By San Francisco Board of Supervisors To Control Medical and Recreational Cannabis Facilities