California Code, Health and Safety Code - HSC § 78260

(b)(1) For purposes of this section, “direct site remediation costs” means payments to contractors for investigations, characterizations, removal, remediation, or long-term operation and maintenance at sites contaminated or suspected of contamination by hazardous materials, where those actions are authorized pursuant to this part.

(2) “Direct site remediation costs” also means the state-mandated share pursuant to Section 104(c)(3) of the federal act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 9604(c)(3)).

(3) “Direct site remediation costs” does not include the department's administrative expenses or the department's expenses for staff to perform oversight of investigations, characterizations, removals, remediations, or long-term operation and maintenance.