A weekly roundup of business-related bills, upcoming...

A weekly roundup of business-related bills, upcoming legislative issues, regulatory news and other developments of local interest.

* Low-Income Housing Credits (AB 168)

Would increase from the overall amount of state tax credits available to developers of low-income housing from the current $35 million to $45 million. Likely supporters include the California Building Industry Assn. and nonprofit housing developers. Opposition could come from the state Department of Finance, because the bill would reduce revenue. Author: Tom Torlakson (D-Antioch)

* No More Joe Camel (ACR 4)

This is a resolution that would urge the shareholders of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. to discontinue the use of Joe Camel in advertising for Camel cigarettes. Support is likely from child advocates and health interests, including the American Lung Assn. of California and the American Heart Assn. of California. Tobacco representatives, who constitute a significant source of campaign contributions, are expected to oppose. Author: Don Perata (D-Alameda)

* Electric Vehicles (SB 211)

Would authorize a five-year pilot project to make parts of Riverside County more amenable to electric vehicles by providing battery-recharging facilities, safety criteria and other incentives to promote the use of electric vehicles. Parts of the Coachella Valley, home to a large senior population, already permit the use of electric golf-cart type vehicles on some roadways. Author: David Kelley (R-Palm Desert)