Recycled water: recycling criteria.
If passed, AB 640 would not substantially alter existing laws but rather refine the language of the recycling criteria as stipulated under the Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act. It aims to enhance the clarity of guidelines established by the State Water Resources Control Board, which is tasked with regulating the use of recycled water. By streamlining the definitions within the law, the bill aims to eliminate ambiguities that could lead to potential misinterpretations by stakeholders involved in water recycling processes.
Assembly Bill 640, introduced by Assembly Member Harper, seeks to amend Section 13520 of the Water Code, focusing on the criteria for recycling water. Specifically, this bill is concerned with the State Water Resources Control Board's establishment of uniform recycling criteria that would ensure the safe use of recycled water, particularly in relation to public health. The intent behind these amendments is to clarify the definition of recycling criteria, which encompasses the levels of constituents in recycled water and the means of ensuring reliability in its use.
While the bill primarily makes technical changes without any substantive alterations to current law, there remains an important context surrounding the management of water resources in California. As discussions on water scarcity continue, stakeholders may seek stronger measures to ensure efficient water use and recycling practices. Thus, while this bill focuses on specific technical clarifications, it could serve as a point of contention if broader conversations surrounding water management and quality standards arise among environmental groups and legislators.