“With California in the midst of a water crisis, it was imperative that we as lawmakers take action to protect the deteriorating Delta ecosystem and ensure a reliable supply of water to our farms, our homes, and our businesses. There are some significant environmental victories in the package of bills. I am pleased the final package includes a Natural Community Conservation Plan, a Delta Water Master and a Delta Conservancy to manage ecosystem restoration. While I would have liked to see more stringent groundwater monitoring and water rights regulations, I believe the package of bills is moving California water policy in the right direction. The package includes a first step in groundwater monitoring, 20 percent urban conservation targets and additional enforcement to crack down on illegal water diversions. The bond includes billions of dollars for cleaning up groundwater, recycling and reusing water, improving watershed programs, restoring the L.A. River, and other regional water projects. I believe this historic water deal strikes a balance between protecting the environment of the Delta and providing clean, safe water to California families.”