Energy, environment & water

Secretary, CalEPA

Oversees CARB, the Water Board and toxics regulators. Cabinet-level head of CalEPA, overseeing CARB, State Water Board, CalRecycle, DTSC, DPR and OEHHA; leads state climate, air, water, toxics and environmental-justice policy.

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The appointment

Appointed by: The Governor
Confirmation: Senate, by majority vote
Term: At the Governor's pleasure
Compensation: $233,000/yr
Availability: At-pleasure: available to the next Governor on day one; Senate confirmation of the replacement within one year where required.
Statutory requirements: None in statute. Gov. Code 12801: the Governor appoints each agency secretary listed in Gov. Code 12800, subject to confirmation by the Senate; the secretary holds office at the pleasure of the Governor. Salary tier Gov. Code 11550, adjusted by CalHR under 19825.5.

Statute-verified

Sources

https://www.gov.ca.gov/2022/08/12/governor-newsom-names-amelia-yana-garcia-gonzalez-new-secretary-for-environmental-protection-as-secretary-jared-blumenfeld-steps-down/; Gov. Code sec. 12812.2 (Secretary for Environmental Protection appointed by Governor subject to Senate confirmation); Statute research 2026-10-20: Gov. Code secs. 12800, 12801, 11550, 19825.5 | https://codes.findlaw.com/ca/government-code/gov-sect-12801/; https://codes.findlaw.com/ca/government-code/gov-sect-11550/

In the catalog

The catalog entry behind this profile. The role explorer lists every California Environmental Protection Agency role, including deputies and other seats.

Secretary for Environmental Protection

California Environmental Protection Agency

Energy & EnvironmentCabinet / C-Suite$233,000/yrSenate confirmation required

Environment and Natural ResourcesLegal and Regulatory AffairsPolicy and Analysis

Cabinet-level head of CalEPA, overseeing CARB, State Water Board, CalRecycle, DTSC, DPR and OEHHA; leads state climate, air, water, toxics and environmental-justice policy.

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