Water: projects: funding.
The bill stipulates that a minimum percentage of General Fund revenues will be allocated for water supply and quality projects, which could include recycled water projects, groundwater recharge, and emergency drinking water initiatives. It aims to enhance the state's ability to respond to water crises and improve overall water management. By ensuring consistent funding, ACA 28 could significantly impact public water services, allowing for improved infrastructure which is critical given California's recurrent drought conditions and water management challenges.
Assembly Constitutional Amendment No. 28 (ACA 28) aims to amend the California Constitution to ensure that a specified percentage of General Fund revenues are allocated for water-related projects and the payment of principal and interest on bonds. This amendment seeks to support the efforts of the Department of Water Resources and the State Water Resources Control Board in managing California's water infrastructure and quality. ACA 28 emphasizes continuous appropriation of these funds regardless of fiscal years, intending to provide a stable financial foundation for critical water initiatives.
However, some concerns arise regarding the specifics of how these percentages will be determined and allocated. There are questions about transparency and accountability regarding the money distribution and the prioritization of projects. Critics argue that without clear guidelines, there could be risks of misallocation or inefficient use of funds, particularly in areas requiring immediate attention. The amendment also must balance the existing duties of the Department of Water Resources and the State Water Resources Control Board with the new funding structure.