Legislation
and Leadership

Water agencies across San Diego County continued long-running efforts to avoid an unprecedented tax on drinking water while ensuring funding for clean water initiatives in disadvantaged communities. Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins of San Diego took a lead role by working with the governor’s staff and legislators in hopes of securing funding from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund instead of imposing a new state tax. The money will assist communities paying for access to safe and affordable drinking water, including treating contaminated water. Water industry associations, including the Water Authority and several member agencies, were part of the coalition opposing a water tax – but the solution wasn’t finalized until after the fiscal year ended.