On April 27th, the House Committee on Natural Resources advanced the Working to Advance Tangible and Effective Reforms (WATER) for California Act (H.R. 215), which was introduced by Congressman David Valadao (D-Kings County). The WATER for California Act (the Act) focuses on streamlining operations, expanding water storage infrastructure, and increasing accountability.
The comprehensive legislation promotes water conveyance through the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, consistent with the Endangered Species Act, and advances key surface water infrastructure projects. Among other provisions, the Act:
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Requires the Central Valley Project (CVP) and State Water Project (SWP) be operated consistent with the 2019 Biological Opinions (BiOps), which were independently peer-reviewed and informed by the most accurate, best available science, but allows modification under certain circumstances.
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Helps to ensure CVP and SWP water stakeholders receive the water they contract and pay for.
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Provides eligibility for funding for the Shasta Enlargement Project.
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Reauthorizes the successful surface water storage project program and coordinated operations of the CVP and SWP established by the WIIN Act.