Fresno County Leaders Respond to AB 1923 — Board Weighs Legal Action

This Fresno County Board of Supervisors meeting on August 6, 2026, focused extensively on the controversy surrounding AB 1923, a state bill perceived by county leaders as an overreach that undermines local control over transportation funding and ballot measures. The board discussed the renewal of Measure C, a longstanding local transportation tax, and criticized a competing citizens' initiative backed by Ashley Swearing and her nonprofit, which they claim hijacked the process and pushed a radical environmental agenda. Concerns were raised about the initiative's lack of oversight, allocation of funds away from road repairs toward public transit and bike lanes, and the validity of signatures collected. The board expressed intent to pursue legal action to challenge AB 1923's constitutionality if signed into law, emphasizing the importance of preserving local governance and fiscal responsibility. Several city mayors also voiced opposition to the initiative and the state bill, highlighting issues with process transparency, funding priorities, and potential litigation risks.