California Assembly Bill AB1562

California 2017-2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/17/17
• Refer: 3/27/17
• Report Pass: 3/28/17
• Refer: 3/29/17
• Failed: 2/1/18

Caption

Sustainable Groundwater Management Act: Desert Water Agency: Coachella Valley Groundwater Basin.

Impact

The bill aims to reinforce the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act by clearly designating the Desert Water Agency as the sole local governance entity for the Coachella Valley Groundwater Basin, thus centralizing authority and responsibility for managing groundwater resources. This legal framework facilitates the development of a cohesive groundwater sustainability plan, crucial for regions suffering from critical overdraft conditions. Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for state reimbursement to local agencies mandated to implement new responsibilities due to state legislation, thereby ensuring that local governments remain financially supported in their efforts to enhance water sustainability.

Summary

AB1562, introduced by Assembly Member Eduardo Garcia, focuses on enhancing groundwater management and restoration efforts related to the Salton Sea. The bill mandates the Desert Water Agency to explore the feasibility of forming a joint powers agreement with local entities, including the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the City of Indio, the Coachella Valley Water District, and the Mission Springs Water District, for effective management of the Coachella Valley Groundwater Basin. A report on these findings must be submitted by the Agency by January 1, 2020. This legislative action underscores California's commitment to sustainable water management in response to the challenges posed by groundwater overdraft and the ecological importance of the Salton Sea region.

Sentiment

The sentiment around AB1562 appears to be largely supportive among stakeholders concerned with water management and environmental restoration. Advocates for sustainable practices view the bill as a proactive step towards addressing the pressing issues of water scarcity and ecological degradation attributed to the Salton Sea. However, there may also exist apprehensions among certain local entities about increased state mandates and potential bureaucratic hurdles that could accompany the new responsibilities outlined in the legislation. Overall, the bill signifies a collaborative approach among varying governmental jurisdictions to address these critical issues.

Contention

While AB1562 enjoys general support, notable points of contention may arise concerning the distribution of responsibilities among local entities in the area. The requirement for the Desert Water Agency to form joint powers agreements with other local bodies might introduce complexities, particularly if there are disagreements on governance, resource allocation, or specific management strategies. Additionally, the expectation for oversight and coordination by various state agencies could lead to concerns about the effectiveness and efficiency of implementation processes, given that local nuances can sometimes be lost in broader regulatory frameworks.