California Assembly Bill AB1196

California 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Failed: 2/1/24

Caption

Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014.

Impact

If enacted, AB 1196 would essentially maintain and slightly refine existing provisions related to the utilization of bonds for water quality improvements. The bill stipulates that projects eligible for funding must focus on addressing the critical needs of disadvantaged communities, enhancing water supply infrastructure, and reducing contaminants. One key objective is to ensure that funding mechanisms can leverage additional resources from various levels of government and private sector contributions to support comprehensive water quality initiatives.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1196, introduced by Assembly Member Villapudua, aims to amend Section 79721 of the Water Code concerning the Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014. This act, which was initially sanctioned by voters through Proposition 1, authorizes the allocation of $520 million for expenditures related to water quality improvement projects across California. The bill emphasizes the funding's role in ensuring safe and reliable drinking water for all residents, particularly focusing on urban, rural, and small disadvantaged communities that face significant challenges due to contaminated water supplies.

Contention

Notably, one of the major points of contention surrounding the bill is its focus on which communities receive priority funding and the efficacy of the established systems in addressing critical needs promptly. Critics may argue that while the bill serves essential public health goals, it does not propose substantial changes or expansions to the funding mechanisms, which may limit its overall impact. Stakeholders are likely to engage in discussions about the best ways to ensure equitable access to water resources and whether existing statutes adequately meet the diverse needs of all Californian communities.