CA Water for All is excited to share that Governor Newsom has signed SB 72 into law, after the bill passed the legislature unanimously. This landmark legislation is a significant step in the right direction for a long-term and reliable water supply for the entire state, including residents, businesses, and the environment.
“I am pleased that Governor Newsom understood the importance of SB 72 and chose to agree with the unanimous legislative support in his signing of the bill,” said Senator Anna Caballero, bill author. “California residents, businesses, and the environment statewide will reap the benefits of SB 72 as we finally have a modernized strategy signed into law that will further protect California's future generations and ensure a reliable and long-term water supply for all.”
“We are thrilled with the Governor's support of SB 72, and want to extend our gratitude to our bill author, Senator Caballero, and all of the members of the legislature who unanimously agreed on the urgency of this legislation,” said Craig Miller, President of the California Municipal Utilities Association and General Manager at Western Water District. “SB 72 sets bold statewide water supply targets and ensures durable planning that carries beyond any single administration. This is the important next step in building a reliable, climate-resistant water future for communities, farms, the environment, and our economy.”
Backed by a broad coalition of water, environmental, business, public safety, and agricultural stakeholders, SB 72 was co-sponsored by the California Municipal Utilities Association (CMUA), the California State Association of Counties (CSAC), and the California Council for Environmental and Economic Balance (CCEEB), and will transform water management in California to:
- Establish necessary statewide water supply targets to capture and produce enough water for all uses.
- Require the State, water community, and stakeholders to work together to develop comprehensive, long-term water supply solutions.
- Enhance the California Water Plan to drought-proof the state.
- Complement Governor Newsom’s Water Supply Strategy to ensure water supply planning targets and action extend beyond any single administration.
“This legislative milestone is a watershed moment for California’s water future. SB 72 establishes an accountable framework for water planning across the state,” said Tim Carmichael, President of CCEEB and bill co-sponsor. “We’re proud to have been a co-sponsor of this important bill and excited to see its policy vision in action.”
“California can’t build its future without water, and SB 72 gives counties and communities the tools to do just that,” said Graham Knaus, CEO of CSAC and bill co-sponsor. “We thank Governor Newsom, Senator Caballero, and the Legislature for their leadership, and we look forward to working with local governments, water agencies, and stakeholders on its effective implementation.”
About CA Water For All
CA Water for All is a statewide effort seeking to educate policymakers about the urgent need for a legislative solution to address California’s ongoing water supply challenges. The effort is focused on bringing together the water community, policymakers, and stakeholders to collaborate on ensuring Californians have a sustainable and reliable water supply for all beneficial uses now and for future generations. To learn more or become a supporter, visit CAWaterForAll.com.
Media Contact
Meagan Luevano
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