RCRC press releases and related news clips about RCRC and our member counties. Please note that a subscription may be required to read some external publications.
California loses four more home insurance brands – San Francisco Chronicle
Four small insurers won't renew California home policies in 2024 due to a nationwide decision by their parent company, Kemper Corp., to exit the preferred personal lines market. Major insurers like Allstate and State Farm have cited increasing wildfire damage for their pullout decisions, but these companies, including Kemper Independence Insurance Co., Merastar, Unitrin Direct Property and Casualty Insurance Co., and Unitrin Auto and Home Insurance Co., have less than 1% of the homeowners insurance market share. They'll service existing policies but won't renew them, planning a full withdrawal from California by Feb. 28, 2025. The California Department of Insurance has attempted to bring more insurance options back to the state, with some criticism from advocacy groups.
Sites Reservoir project plans finalized – ABC 10
California's Sites Reservoir project has reached a significant milestone, with finalized plans for a reservoir that would be the second largest off-stream reservoir in the nation, increasing Northern California's water storage capacity by up to 15%. The project aims to deliver water primarily during dry periods and droughts. Situated about an hour north of Sacramento, the reservoir is expected to cost around $3.5 billion and is set to be completed by 2030 or 2031. The project's reduction from 1.9 million acre-feet to 1.5 million acre-feet came after an economic feasibility review. This initiative aims to enhance water resilience in the face of climate change.
State Continues to Advance Sustainable Groundwater Management with Release of 17 Basin Determinations – Department of Water Resources
The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) has announced decisions regarding groundwater sustainability plans for 17 non-critically overdrafted groundwater basins. This marks progress toward achieving long-term sustainability for these critical water sources, addressing water resiliency for communities and the environment. The Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) guides DWR in evaluating the plans to ensure they are based on the best available science and information. Plans for 12 basins were approved, while five were deemed incomplete due to deficiencies like lacking a clear overdraft elimination plan and land subsidence management. The GSAs in incomplete basins have 180 days to correct these deficiencies. DWR will continue to support local agencies in managing their groundwater basins sustainably.
California can require railroads to eliminate pollution, EPA decides – San Francisco Chronicle
California has won federal approval to enact a first-in-the-nation rule requiring railroads in the state to reduce, and eventually eliminate, harmful air pollution from their locomotives. The railroad industry is already challenging the proposed rule in court.