In describing and evaluating a project in an environmental review document prepared pursuant to this division, the lead agency may consider specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other benefits, including regionwide or statewide environmental benefits, of a proposed project and the negative impacts of denying the project. Any benefits or negative impacts considered pursuant to this section shall be based on substantial evidence in light of the whole record.

(Added by Stats. 2018, Ch. 193, Sec. 1. (AB 2782) Effective January 1, 2019.)