California Assembly Bill AB1784

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/22

Caption

Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014: groundwater sustainability projects: grants and loans.

Impact

The bill seeks to retain the primary framework established by Proposition 1 but makes minor technical revisions to improve the competitive grant selection process for funding. By emphasizing projects that not only solve immediate contamination issues but also enhance sustainability, AB1784 aims to increase community resilience in managing water resources effectively. Additionally, the bill stresses the importance of leveraging local, federal, or private funds, encouraging broader collaboration in addressing groundwater challenges.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1784, introduced by Assembly Member Smith, aims to amend Section 79774 of the Water Code concerning the Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014. This bill is particularly focused on enhancing the sustainability of groundwater projects through grants and loans. The existing legislation, approved by voters as Proposition 1, authorized substantial funds to finance water quality and infrastructure programs, including $900 million for groundwater contamination projects. Through AB1784, the intended amendments are largely nonsubstantive adjustments to streamline these processes.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around funding allocations, particularly concerning the balance of support for severely disadvantaged communities. The bill mandates that at least 10% of funds must be directed toward projects benefiting these communities. However, discussions about funding viability and potential limitations on project scales could generate debate among stakeholders. Critics may push back against perceived insufficient support for local projects that tackle unique environmental or infrastructural concerns not covered under the broader state initiative.