What landmark legislation in California is often associated with environmental protection?

The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) is the landmark legislation most closely associated with environmental protection in California. Enacted in 1970, CEQA aims to ensure that all branches of government consider the potential environmental impacts of their actions before making decisions. This law requires state and local agencies to evaluate and disclose the environmental consequences of their proposed projects, thereby providing a framework for analyzing potential negative impacts.

Under CEQA, public agencies must prepare an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for projects that may significantly affect the environment. This process promotes public participation and transparency, allowing communities to voice their concerns and ensuring that environmental factors are taken into account in the planning and decision-making process.

Other options, while important in their respective areas, do not primarily focus on environmental protection. The California Dream Act pertains to educational opportunities for undocumented students; the California Transparency in Supply Chains Act targets ethical business practices; and the California Air Quality Reauthorization Act deals specifically with air quality regulations but is not as comprehensive in its approach to environmental oversight as CEQA. Thus, selecting the California Environmental Quality Act accurately reflects the legislation's central role in promoting environmental protection in California.