California 2021-2022 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB2368

Introduced
2/16/22  

Caption

Water: Department of Water Resources.

Impact

Although the bill's changes are described as nonsubstantive, they reflect a careful examination of the existing laws surrounding the governance of the Department of Water Resources. By streamlining the language regarding the appointment of the Director—which remains contingent on the Governor's choices and Senate confirmation—the bill maintains the existing oversight structure while potentially enhancing accountability through clearer guidelines. Such amendments symbolize a commitment to ensuring proper governance and management of critical state resources.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 2368, introduced by Assembly Member Bloom, seeks to amend Section 120 of the Water Code related to the Department of Water Resources in California's Natural Resources Agency. The bill proposes to make nonsubstantive changes to existing provisions governing the structure and appointment of the Director of Water Resources. The overarching goal is to ensure clarity and precision in the language used throughout the legislation, which, while not altering the functions or powers of the Department, aims to enforce an improved regulatory framework.

Contention

Notably, since AB 2368 focuses on administrative adjustments rather than substantive policy changes regarding water management or resources, it experiences limited contention. The bill directs attention away from more controversial water laws that often fuel debate, such as allocation and environmental impact matters. However, opposition may arise if there are perceptions that these standard amendments inadvertently pave the way for future legislative changes that could alter governmental authority or resource allocation within the department.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA AB2171

Water: Department of Water Resources.

CA SB231

Department of Water Resources: water supply forecasting.

CA AB460

State Water Resources Control Board: water rights and usage: civil penalties.

CA SB389

State Water Resources Control Board: investigation of water right.

CA AB1337

State Water Resources Control Board: water diversion curtailment.

CA AB1597

Water quality: California-Mexico cross-border watersheds.

CA SB753

Cannabis: water resources.

CA AB1272

State Water Resources Control Board: drought planning.

CA SB361

Water resources: stream gages.

CA AB756

Department of Transportation: contaminated stormwater runoff: salmon and steelhead trout bearing surface waters.

Similar Bills

MS SB2504

Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks; set term of executive director and create Division of Parks and Recreation.

CA AB2171

Water: Department of Water Resources.

MS SB2503

Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks; set terms of office.

CA AB786

California Transportation Commission: executive director.

CA SB181

Administrative Procedure Act: repeal of regulations.

CA AB2525

Student mental health framework.

CA AB817

Gambling Control Act.

CA AB245

California Aerospace and Aviation Commission: establishment.