California confronts a set of interlocking policy challenges that threaten its future vitality. The state has long been a magnet to people across the United States and around the world seeking economic opportunity and a high quality of life. But as the price of housing has spiraled out of control and as climate change has multiplied the risks posed by drought and wildfires to communities, the state must develop new strategies that safeguard its future.

This conference will bring together academic experts, policymakers and advocates for a discussion of both the underlying problems facing the state and potential solutions. 

Panel 1 
9:40–10:50 a.m. PDT

"Safeguarding California’s Communities in the Face of Climate Change" focuses on the risks posed by extreme weather, including drought, wildfires and flooding, to the viability of California communities, along with potential policy responses.

Speakers:
Senator Nancy Skinner, 9th District, California
Ellen Hanak, vice president and director of the Water Policy Center, Public Policy Institute of California
Matto Mildenberger, assistant professor of political science, UC Santa Barbara
David Vogel, Solomon Lee Distinguished Professor Emeritus, UC Berkeley

Panel 2
11–12:10 p.m. PDT

“California as Energy Leader” asks what role California can play in building reliable, renewable energy systems that can be a model for the United States and beyond. 

Speakers:
Senator Henry Stern, 27th district, California
Sharon Jacobs, professor of law, UC Berkeley
Daniel M. Kammen, James and Katherine Lau Distinguished Professor of Sustainability, UC Berkeley 

Lunch will be served at 12:15 p.m. PDT

Keynote Address on California’s Governing Challenges
12:30–1:30 pm PDT

Speaker:
Betty Yee, state controller (2015–23)

Panel 3
1:40–30 p.m. PDT

“Addressing the State's Housing Crisis" asks how the state can leverage its resources to improve the supply of housing, while managing relationships between local governments and other stakeholders. 

Speakers:
Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, 14th District, California
Ben Metcalf, managing director of the Terner Center for Housing Innovation, UC Berkeley
Moira Kathleen O'Neill, associate professor, University of Virginia
Darrell Owens, data and policy analyst, California YIMBY