(February 29, 2008) Californians for Clean and Reliable Water has decided to delay launching a signature-gathering effort on any of the water bond initiatives filed in December 2007.

The California Chamber of Commerce, along with a broad coalition of business, labor and agricultural groups, filed four versions of the “Comprehensive Safe Drinking Water, Water Supply Reliability and Delta Restoration Act of 2008” with the Attorney General for title and summary.

Yesterday the members of the coalition issued a statement applauding U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger for demonstrating strong leadership to craft a comprehensive solution to California’s water crisis. As a result of their efforts and in view of the commitment given to them by the legislative leadership to pursue a comprehensive solution, the coalition will focus its attention on achieving a bipartisan legislative package.

An unreliable and outdated water supply system leaves California just one earthquake or flood away from a massive catastrophe. For years, little has been done to prepare for California’s statewide water needs, and recent court decisions, drought and climate change have drastically reduced available water for tens of millions of Californians from every corner of the state. California can no longer allow the state’s water needs to be sidetracked by partisan politics or political maneuvering.  

Californians for Clean and Reliable Water looks forward to supporting a comprehensive legislative solution that will enhance California’s environment and assure an adequate supply of clean, safe water for the future. It is imperative that the solution improve water quality, expand water conservation, protect the environment and provide for new storage and conveyance, goals that were addressed in the coalition measures. The coalition urges all parties to come to the table, participate in the discussions and negotiate in good faith through the bipartisan framework established by Governor Schwarzenegger and Senator Feinstein.

CalChamber President Allan Zaremberg serves as chairman of the coalition. In addition to the CalChamber, the following organizations and legislative leaders have assisted the coalition in its efforts to promote a comprehensive solution to California’s water crisis:

• California Alliance for Jobs;
• California Building Industry Association;
• California Business Properties Association;
• California Business Roundtable;
• Consulting Engineers and Land Surveyors of California;
• Western Growers Association;
• California Senator Dave Cogdill.

The Association of California Water Agencies serves as a technical advisor to Californians for Clean and Reliable Water.      

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