Public water systems: reduction of water charges: customers impacted by COVID-19.
The bill directly modifies existing provisions in the Health and Safety Code and the Government Code by adding specific sections that grant local agencies the authority to impose enhanced penalties for water theft. Under this legislation, local governments can create ordinances to penalize individuals who violate water resource management laws, with fines exceeding the current limits set for infractions. For instance, the bill permits fines of up to $3,000 for repeated offenses, which could significantly deter instances of water theft that strain public resources.
Assembly Bill 2095, introduced by Assembly Member Cooper, aims to address two critical issues regarding public water systems in California, particularly in response to the ongoing impacts of COVID-19. The bill proposes to allow public water systems to reduce water charges for customers who have been financially affected by the pandemic, ensuring that such reductions do not lead to increased charges for other ratepayers. This measure is framed within the context of the California Safe Drinking Water Act, which underscores the state's commitment to ensuring access to safe and affordable water for all residents.
General sentiment around AB 2095 appears to be supportive, especially in the context of assisting those who have faced economic hardship due to COVID-19. Advocates likely view the reduction of water charges as a necessary public health measure. However, there may be concerns surrounding the potential for local governments to exercise discretion in imposing fines, which could lead to inconsistencies in enforcement and accusations of overreach in governance.
While the focus of AB 2095 is primarily on relief and penalties, notable points of contention may arise around enforcement measures for water theft. Critics could argue that imposing higher fines may disproportionately affect low-income individuals who might already be struggling to pay their bills, raising ethical questions about equitable access to essential services. Additionally, the balance of regulatory power between state and local agencies is a continuous theme in such legislation, possibly prompting debates on how much authority local governments should wield concerning utility management and enforcement.