For Immediate Release
Friday, July 9, 2004

House Passes Landmark Water Bill for California

Washington, DC - Today the House unanimously approved H.R. 2828, the Water Supply, Reliability, and Environmental Improvement Act, by voice vote.

Better known as Cal-Fed, this legislation will provide a balanced water delivery and storage system while improving the quality of the environment, recreation, drinking water, agriculture and industry.

"We have spent a decade working on a bill that would enhance water quality, supply, and delivery for the people of California," said Resources Committee Chairman Richard W. Pombo (R-CA). "Today, we got it. This would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of Congressman Ken Calvert and the other members of the Resources Committee. As always, I look forward to working with Senator Feinstein to see this bill sent down Pennsylvania Avenue to the President's desk."

Rep. Ken Calvert, Chairman, Subcommittee on Water and Power (R-CA):

"Today's victory of my bill brings us one step closer to CalFed reauthorization. It means viable and livable solutions to California's, and the Western States', water needs for our children and grandchildren. Furthermore, I offer my thanks to the Chairman of the House Committee on Resources, Richard Pombo, Ranking Member Grace Napolitano and other Members of the Resources Committee who have worked to bring the bill to this point. We are all looking forward to working with the Senate to bring the legislation to the President for his signature. "

Rep. George Radanovich (R-CA):

"Water is the lifeblood of the economy in our state and the San Joaquin Valley, where over 250 of California's crops are grown. An opportunity exists today to lay the foundation for a more secure water supply in California. I believe we must seize this opportunity. Our families and those in generations to come will be thankful that we did. This has been a vital issue since I have begun my service in Congress. Apparently, the stars are aligned today for passage of HR 2828. It's about time."

Rep. Devin Nunes (R-CA):

"I'm happy we made some progress today on getting more water storage for the California and the Central Valley, but there's still a lot of work that needs to be done before we actually see the benefit. Water is more than just an issue for agriculture. Virtually every city in California is facing a shortage of water. As our population continues to grow, water will be in shorter and shorter supply. In the end, this bill is good for the economy, good for agriculture, and good for the environment, and I applaud its passage."

Rep. John T. Doolittle (R-CA):

"California's economic lifeblood is integrally linked to reliable, high quality water supplies. But currently, our growing demand is outpacing existing water supplies. The current CALFED system lacks the accountability that would enable our great state to efficiently implement projects that increase water supply and reliability, and improve water quality.

"Up until now, ecological programs have received the majority of the focus and funding. This bill brings a balance to the program by increasing our state's water yield though much-needed water supply and storage projects and incorporating stronger congressional oversight and accountability."

"I commend Chairman Pombo and Chairman Calvert for their hard work on a strong, bipartisan CALFED bill that will produce the yield needed for California's growing needs."

Overview of HR 2828, Cal-Fed:

After nearly a decade of attempts to address the water shortage in California, a bi-partisan agreement has finally been reached. National support for this program will help ensure that California will not need to pursue additional avenues of water to meet its agricultural and population needs.

Water Quality: Improves water quality throughout the Delta, California's most important watershed; Develops projects to address water quality issues of San Francisco, San Joaquin and Sacramento counties, including technology to reduce agricultural run-off; Ensures that water quality, water supply and water yield, and fisheries protection all advance together.

Water use efficiency/reliability: Recognizes continued federal assistance to water recycling and desalination projects; Assists local and regional communities in implementing regional water improvement plans; Expedites projects that will ensure a long-term reliable water supply.

Accountability: Requires an annual report to Congress describing the status and implementation of all components; Requires detailed accounting of all funds received and obligated by federal and state agencies for implementing the Bay-Delta Program.

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