The Honorable Blanca Rubio
State Capitol, Room 5175
Sacramento, CA 95814

Re: AB 1654 (Rubio): Urban Water Management Planning
Position: SUPPORT

Re: AB 968 (Rubio): Water Use Efficiency
Position: Support in Concept

Dear Assemblymember Rubio:

On behalf of the Northern California Chamber Alliance, I am writing to express our support for AB 1654, your measure which would enhance existing urban water management planning requirements and strengthen water suppliers’ abilities to plan and prepare for future droughts. We are also conveying our support in concept for AB 968, which addresses water use efficiency planning and implementation, based on anticipated amendments to the bill.

We believe that because of their knowledge, expertise and connection with local communities, local agencies are best positioned to effectively manage the water resources for which they have responsibility and optimize the beneficial uses of these resources. Both of your bills create the appropriate framework to promote water use efficiency and successful drought responses while also ensuring that local agencies retain the ability to manage their water supplies.

The Northern California Chamber Alliance represents many chambers of commerce throughout northern California and southern Oregon. Reliable water supplies, effective response to droughts, and protection of watersheds and aquatic ecosystems are all factors that are essential for a thriving economy. We believe that both AB 968 and 1654 enhance the ability of local water suppliers to provide these services.

For these reasons, the Northern California Chamber Alliance supports AB 1654 and AB 968 in concept. If you or your staff have any questions, please contact me.

Sincerely,
Sandy Linville, PhD
President
cc: The Honorable Eduardo Garcia, Chair, Assembly Water, Parks, and Wildlife Committee Honorable Members of the Assembly Water, Parks, and Wildlife Committee