The California State Legislature’s 2019-2020 session is currently underway. We’ll be watching for bills addressing important water infrastructure and regulation issues. Already on our radar is Governor Gavin Newsom’s budget, which includes the “Safe and Affordable Drinking Water Fund,” a proposed special fund from new water, fertilizer, and dairy taxes to help chronically failing water systems meet O&M costs.
It also includes $4.9 million from the General Fund on a one-time basis for implementation of the program, including development of a map of high-risk aquifers used as drinking water sources. The Legislature has until June 15 to pass the budget, so stay tuned as we monitor progress on this and other critical issues affecting mutual water companies.