Drinking water: consolidation.
The bill emphasizes the state's commitment to promoting orderly growth while addressing the pressing needs of communities facing water supply issues. Consolidation facilitates a more efficient operation of water systems, especially in disadvantaged areas heavily reliant on domestic wells that may not consistently meet quality standards. This legislative change potentially amplifies the state's role in managing water resources, ensuring that residents have access to safe drinking water irrespective of their geographic or economic status.
Assembly Bill 2509, introduced by Assembly Member Mathis, proposes amendments to Section 116680 of the Health and Safety Code, which relates to the consolidation of drinking water systems in California. The existing framework, established under the California Safe Drinking Water Act, delegates authority to the State Water Resources Control Board to intervene when public water systems fail to provide safe drinking water. AB 2509 aims to refine previous language in this section, reinforcing the importance of proper drinking water management and the consolidation of failing systems to ensure adequate service to underserved communities.
While the bill itself does not introduce substantial changes to the operations or authority of the water systems, its implications could stir debate regarding the balance of state control versus local autonomy in managing water resources. Critics may argue that increased state intervention could undermine local governance, particularly if decisions around consolidation are perceived to overlook the unique needs and capacities of local communities. Advocates, however, underscore that such measures are critical for ensuring basic health and safety standards, especially in areas disproportionately affected by water scarcities.