California Assembly Bill AB2877

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/18/22
• Refer: 3/17/22
• Report Pass: 3/17/22
• Refer: 3/21/22
• Report Pass: 3/24/22
• Refer: 3/28/22
• Report Pass: 4/19/22
• Refer: 4/20/22
• Report Pass: 4/27/22
• Refer: 4/27/22
• Refer: 5/11/22
• Report Pass: 5/19/22
• Engrossed: 5/23/22
• Refer: 5/24/22
• Refer: 6/1/22
• Report Pass: 6/29/22
• Refer: 6/30/22
• Refer: 8/2/22
• Report Pass: 8/11/22
• Enrolled: 8/31/22
• Chaptered: 9/23/22
• Passed: 9/23/22

Caption

Safe and Affordable Drinking Water Fund: tribes.

Impact

The implementation of AB 2877 is expected to impact state laws regarding the operation and funding of water systems serving tribal communities in California. By mandating the inclusion of tribal liaisons in all related discussions, the bill seeks to streamline the application process for tribes accessing state funds. This measure also requires the state water board to track and report on funding inquiries, applications, and grants awarded to tribes, promoting transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. The amendment to the tribal sovereignty waiver process aims to ensure that tribal needs are adequately met while still allowing for enforceability in funding agreements.

Summary

Assembly Bill 2877 was introduced to amend the Health and Safety Code and enhance the distribution of funds from the Safe and Affordable Drinking Water Fund specifically to California Native American tribes, both federally recognized and some non-federally recognized. The legislation aims to ensure a more equitable distribution of funding for safe drinking water projects to tribal entities, thereby addressing historical inadequacies in access to safe drinking water in these communities. The bill underlines the importance of including a tribal liaison in discussions regarding funding agreements to facilitate better communication and coordination between the state and tribal governments.

Sentiment

The bill was largely viewed positively among proponents who see it as a necessary step toward rectifying longstanding disparities in access to safe drinking water for Native American tribes in California. Supporters highlighted the bill's potential to improve public health outcomes within these communities. However, some concerns were raised regarding the potential complexities that might arise from the requirement of a narrow waiver of tribal sovereignty necessary for funding, sparking debate around the balance of state oversight versus tribal autonomy.

Contention

While AB 2877 has garnered considerable support, opponents expressed concerns about how the waiver of tribal sovereignty might affect the autonomy of tribal governments. The discussions surrounding these provisions highlighted the need for sensitivity and understanding of tribal governance structures when state regulations intersect with tribal interests. Overall, the bill exemplifies an ongoing negotiation between state regulatory frameworks and the self-determination of tribal entities, marking an important step forward while also raising critical discussions about sovereignty and governance.