BILL NUMBER: AB 2309 VETOED DATE: 09/25/2000 SEP 25 2000 To Members of the California Assembly: I am returning Assembly Bill 2309 without my signature. This bill would extend the sunset, until January 1, 2002, on both the facility fee rate reduction for large offsite hazardous waste treatment facilities and the disposal fee rate reduction set by SB 660, Chapter 870, Statutes of 1997. The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) has been meeting with an informal Fee Advisory Panel to form a complete fee reform package. The DTSC has invested time and resources negotiating with stakeholders to forge a consensus for fee modifications, while this bill would counter this process by predetermining a single part of the overall fee package. AB 2309 represents a special interest, "piece meal" approach to fee reform. I would ask the stakeholders to work with DTSC next year to find an equitable fee reform package that adequately funds the important programs administered by the DTSC. Sincerely, GRAY DAVIS