CalMutuals Legislative Report: AB 1794
A higher rate of urgency does not imply ever-present panic, anxiety, or fear.
It means a state in which complacency is virtually absent.  – John Cotter

Last year, we banded together to dismantle AB 1077, a hostile bill aimed at Lincoln Avenue Water Company. This bill would have required mutual water companies to offer public participation at board meetings via teleconference and other electronic means thereby, exceeding what is required of water districts, cities and the legislature in providing remote access to board meeting. AB 1077 is an example of our growing ability to stand together across California.   We can stave-off attacks from hostile legislation and get helpful bills passed in Sacramento.

This year, we are asking for your help in once again impacting legislation affecting mutual water companies.  AB1794  introduced by Assemblymember Cristina Garcia and Co-Sponsored by Speaker Anthony Rendon would include three (3) members from the water purveyor community to a seven (7) member-board of the Central Basin Municipal Water District in Los Angeles County to increase representation and transparency.  

Mutual water companies in Los Angeles County, who would otherwise be excluded from playing a role on the Central Basin Board of Directors, need letters of support from other mutual water companies throughout the state to assure passage.

Click Here to Download the Support Letter Template 

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Central Basin is infamous for its corruption, and a legislative audit determined that the best way to reform the agency is to give those who buy its water a voice on the board.  This includes cities, investor-owned utilities, special districts and now, thanks to our organized efforts, mutual water companies. 

WHY YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS

Passage of AB1794 is important to for all mutual water companies in California.   This is because implementation of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) has created issues for mutual water companies in the Central Valley and the Inland Empire that could imperil water rights if mutuals are excluded from governance agreements.  By passing AB1794, mutuals can prove that we play positive roles and hold regional water suppliers accountable. 
 
If you can support and would like our staff to complete the letter on your behalf, please email your letterhead and/or logo to: Tristan@CalMutuals.org or click here to download and complete the template support letter.