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Northern California Delegation Statement on House GOP Water Bill

June 26, 2015

Washington—Northern California Representatives Mike Thompson (CA-05), Jerry McNerney (CA-09), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Doris Matsui (CA-06), and Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11) released the following statement in response to the House GOP water bill:

"When it comes to addressing California's water challenges, we need bold, forward-thinking action and real, workable solutions – none of which exists in the water bill offered by our Republican colleagues."

"What's worse is that this divisive, reckless approach is déjà vu. We are deeply disappointed by the lack of progress represented in this bill, and fearful that its passage could have lasting, devastating effects to all communities across California. This bill clearly neglects to include the voices from the very stakeholders – Delta and Northern California communities, fishing industry, farms, tribes, and water districts– that this bill stands to harm."

"We are deeply disappointed by the lack of progress represented here, and believe that its passage would be disastrous for millions of Californians. Specifically, the legislation would radically change how the federal government releases water through the Central Valley Project by instructing federal officials to pump maximum amounts of water and overriding the flexibility they need to operate a complex water system.

"This bill makes it more difficult for federal and state agencies to make important decisions at a time when California faces its worst drought in a generation. It also undermines crucial environmental protection laws, harms vulnerable species populations, and continues to put different parts of the state at odds with each other when it comes to finding a path forward."

"As a delegation, we are committed to working with all stakeholders and will keep our focus on comprehensive, technologically-innovative, state-wide solutions that not only will help families, farmers, small businesses, and fish and wildlife endure this drought but will better prepare our communities for the next one."