California is beginning a new building decarbonization pilot program — one that moves beyond upgrading individual homes to transitioning entire blocks or neighborhoods off natural gas. Senate Bill 1221 (SB 1221) creates a first-of-its-kind pathway for doing this at scale. While the approach offers clear potential to reduce emissions and improve health, it also raises practical questions about how these projects will work on the ground, including who pays, how communities opt in, and how decisions are made.

To help navigate this complex law, the UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation developed an FAQ that examines what is currently known and unknown about SB 1221. Building on existing guidance, the FAQ highlights key implementation questions and offers analysis to support policymakers, practitioners, and community members as the program takes shape.