Urban water use objectives.
The impact of SB 1157 on state laws is significant, as it sets more stringent standards for water use, demonstrating the state's commitment to sustainable conservation practices. Additionally, the bill mandates the Department of Water Resources and the State Water Resources Control Board to conduct studies to assess the economic implications of these new standards on water, wastewater, and recycled water systems. These studies will be reported to the legislature by October 1, 2028, providing data-driven justifications for future regulation adjustments. Moreover, additional reporting will be required to monitor urban water suppliers' compliance with these revised standards.
Senate Bill 1157, introduced by Hertzberg, amends existing regulations concerning indoor residential water use in California. The bill revises the current standard of indoor water use, requiring urban retail water suppliers to reduce their per capita water use from 55 gallons, set to decrease to 52.5 gallons in 2025 and 50 gallons in 2030, to a new standard of 47 gallons per capita daily from January 1, 2025, until January 1, 2030, and subsequently to 42 gallons per capita daily starting January 1, 2030. This legislative change aims to proactively manage water resources amid growing concerns about water scarcity due to climate change and population growth.
General sentiment around the bill appears to be supportive among environmental advocates and many legislative members, emphasizing the need for responsible water management practices in the face of climate challenges. However, there may be pushback concerning potential challenges for urban suppliers to meet these reduced water use standards, which could exacerbate pressures on communities already dealing with the ramifications of drought and water shortages. Predictably, discussions around this bill will highlight conflicts between conservation efforts and the operational realities faced by water suppliers.
A notable point of contention is the potential impact of the new water standards on low- or fixed-income households and whether the reduced water allowances may lead to affordability issues for water services. The bill includes provisions that if it is determined that such standards could unduly affect affordability, alternate implementation dates could be proposed. Furthermore, discussions regarding the environmental flow needs and operational challenges for wastewater agencies are anticipated as the bill progresses, posing questions about balancing conservation efforts with economic realities for various stakeholders.