On Tuesday, Representative T.J. Cox (District 21) continued to address the Central Valley's water infrastructure by introducing another bill aimed at increasing the region's water supply.
The Western Water Storage Infrastructure Act authorizes $800 million for surface and groundwater storage and conveyance projects. That would double what was previously available.
The bill was co-sponsored by Reps. Jim Costa (District 16) and John Garamendi (District 3).
According to a summary, the bill looks to provide federal support for groundwater storage projects in order to improve the reliability of the water supply and to help the state deal with droughts in a state that is "increasingly met with intense drought made worse by climate change."
“Even during this difficult time, we can’t stop our work to bring everyone in the Valley the water they need,” said Rep. Cox in a statement released by his office. “Water supply reliability is incredibly important to the lives of Central Valley working families and for the entire world’s economy and food system.”
“Our valley economy depends on a reliable and clean water supply. It is apparent, now more than ever during this pandemic, how important our food producers are to our well-being. We cannot wait to increase water storage across California. This is a critical need that calls for bold investment in infrastructure. Building out California's water supply is the only way to ensure we produce the food needed to feed the American people,” said Rep. Costa.
“Congressman Cox has introduced important legislation to solve California’s water supply and environmental challenges, providing critical water for the Central Valley and upholding essential protections for the Delta. This bill indicates Congressman Cox’s understanding of the balance needed to meet California’s long-term water needs, and I compliment him on his leadership,” added Rep. Garamendi.
This is the third water-related bill introduced by Cox.
- Read the full bill text.
- Read one-page summary.
- Read a section-by-section of the bill.
