State Water Resources Control Board: water quality objectives.
Impact
If enacted, AB 636 will significantly alter the current operational framework of the State Water Resources Control Board. By requiring a legislative hearing before the adoption of water quality objectives, the legislation aims to ensure greater transparency and public accountability. This could lead to more rigorous scrutiny of environmental policies, potentially resulting in amendments or delays in the implementation of certain water strategies that are deemed necessary by the board.
Summary
AB 636, introduced by Assembly Member Gray, seeks to amend the Water Code by adding Section 13170.7, which aims to enhance legislative oversight on the implementation of water quality objectives set by the State Water Resources Control Board. Under the proposed bill, the board will not be able to implement any such objectives for which it has adopted a statement of overriding consideration, unless it first submits both the objectives and the statement to the appropriate policy committees of the Legislature. Additionally, these committees must hold a public hearing with a representative from the board present to respond to inquiries regarding these matters.
Contention
Notably, proponents of AB 636 argue that this legislation will help safeguard against hasty decisions that could adversely impact water quality and public health. They stress that increased legislative involvement can lead to more comprehensive reviews of environmental impacts. However, critics may contend that imposing additional layers of bureaucracy could slow down the decision-making process, complicating the timely application of necessary environmental measures as water issues continue to escalate across the state.