Urban water use: water efficiency.
If enacted, AB 968 will significantly influence state water policy by mandating urban retail water suppliers to establish and meet specific water efficiency goals. The bill aligns with California's overarching targets, aiming for a 20% reduction in urban per capita water use by 2020, which emphasizes the need for continuous progress towards sustainable water management. It also addresses concerns regarding climate change, population growth, and the necessity to preserve fish and wildlife habitats by promoting efficient water use practices and technologies that enhance water conservation efforts.
Assembly Bill 968, introduced by Assembly Member Rubio, aims to improve urban water management in California by setting comprehensive water efficiency targets for urban retail water suppliers. The bill requires the Department of Water Resources to create preliminary water efficiency targets for each hydrologic region in the state by December 31, 2018. Additionally, it mandates the establishment of a task force to recommend measures for improving water efficiency across different sectors, including commercial and industrial. As a result, the bill seeks to facilitate a proactive approach to water conservation and ensure that urban water suppliers adopt strategies for sustainable use of water resources.
The sentiment surrounding AB 968 appears to be positive among proponents who view it as a critical step towards enhancing water resource management in light of California’s ongoing drought conditions. Supporters argue that the bill will create a standardized framework for urban water suppliers to follow, thus facilitating better planning and response to water shortages. However, concerns exist regarding the potential burdens the regulations may impose on water suppliers, especially smaller entities that might struggle with the added requirements for compliance and reporting.
Notable points of contention involve the balance between regulatory requirements and the operational realities of urban water suppliers. While the bill aims to unify water efficiency measures, some opponents argue that it could inadvertently centralize authority in a way that undermines local governance and the autonomy of smaller water providers. The detailed reporting and standards set forth could lead to increased administrative costs and complexities, prompting a discussion on whether the benefits of increased efficiency would outweigh these potential drawbacks.