Expert perspectives on California’s climate disclosure laws: How to prepare amid evolving guidance

California’s climate disclosure landscape is evolving quickly. SB 261 enforcement is temporarily paused while the Ninth Circuit reviews the case, but CARB is still pushing ahead with SB 253 implementation, including a new August 2026 deadline and added first-year flexibility.

But client, investor, and regulator expectations for credible climate governance and data continue to rise. The companies that prepare now will be best positioned for compliance and competitive advantage when reporting begins. And timelines could change very quickly—CARB has paused enforcement while the court hears the SB 261 appeal on January 9, so the path forward may shift depending on that outcome.

Join Watershed and leading experts from California government, legal, and policy communities for a forward-looking conversation on how companies can build durable disclosure programs—despite procedural uncertainty—and why moving early is good for business.

We’ll cover:

• What the latest developments mean for 2026 reporting
• How to interpret CARB’s proposed SB 253 changes and first-year flexibilities
• Why proactive preparation reduces compliance risk and cost
• How leading companies are setting up governance, risk processes, and emissions measurement now
• Audience Q&A to address your top questions