This week, the Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee approved Senate Bill 252, authored by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa). This measure relates to new well permits issued in critically over-drafted groundwater basins.
Initially, RCRC had an “Oppose Unless Amended” position on SB 252; however, Senator Dodd accepted amendments proposed by RCRC. These amendments 1) further clarify that the procedural steps required are themselves ministerial in nature; and, 2) confirm that local governments retain the authority to determine whether issuance of new well permits in the critically over-drafted basins will be ministerial or made discretionary. SB 252 continues to recognize the ‘local control’ element that has been a key aspect to the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act implementation.
The Committee had a lengthy discussion on various aspects of the measure, particularly around how to best recognize and incorporate county-adopted ordinances. In addition, several members acknowledged the need to recognize the tension between the need for protecting drinking water and water for agriculture.
In closing, Senator Dodd committed to addressing the concerns raised by the opponents, including language to protect local governments from legal challenges, as SB 252 moves to the Assembly Local Government Committee.
RCRC’s removal of opposition letter can be accessed here.