_{Consultation Group FAQ}

_{1. What is the purpose of the Consultation Group?}

_{The Consultation Group's primary goal is to advise CARB (California Air Resources Board) on effectively implementing Blueprint 2.0, a plan aimed at improving community air quality.}

_{2. What is the time commitment for Consultation Group Members?}

_{Members serve for a term of up to four years. While the exact meeting frequency might vary, it's anticipated there will be up to three meetings annually, commencing in the summer of 2025.}

_{3. Where will the Consultation Group meetings be held?}

_{Meetings will primarily take place at either the CalEPA Headquarters building in Sacramento or the CARB Headquarters Building in Riverside. The format of these meetings might be in-person, hybrid, or virtual, taking into account current regulations like the Bagley-Keene Open Meetings Act.}

_{4. Is there compensation for Consultation Group Members?}

_{Consultation Group members, except those representing government agencies, will receive $100 per meeting as compensation. Additionally, they are eligible for reimbursement of travel expenses, based on current State government rates and requiring prior CARB approval.}

_{5. What are the eligibility criteria for becoming a Consultation Group Member?}

_{CARB will prioritize applicants who:}

• _{Represent communities in California most significantly impacted by air pollution.}
• _{Possess knowledge of and experience in working towards or advocating for enhanced air quality locally. This includes lived experience.}
• _{Demonstrate interest or experience with governance structures, welcoming a wide spectrum of opinions and perspectives.}

_{6. What is the role of an Alternate in the Consultation Group?}

_{Applicants are encouraged to designate an Alternate who can represent them in their absence, ensuring consistent participation and input from their stakeholder group. Alternates undergo the same appointment process as primary members and receive compensation and travel reimbursement only when attending meetings on behalf of the primary member.}

_{7. What are the restrictions related to conflicts of interest for Consultation Group Members?}

_{Members must adhere to Government Code section 87104, which restricts them from being involved in grant applications, contracts, or lobbying efforts related to CARB. More information on these requirements is available on the CARB and CalEPA websites.}

_{8. How are Consultation Group Members selected?}

_{CARB staff will review all applications received by the deadline. Following this review, they will present a list of recommended Consultation Group members to the Board for appointment in the Spring of 2025.}