(August 27, 2008) California Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Allan Zaremberg is urging the Legislature to act immediately to pass a comprehensive water package that invests in California’s future. The issue was highlighted again yesterday during an informational hearing at the State Capitol. 

“This year’s drought and environmental issues have emphasized the fact that our state’s water system is in crisis,” said Zaremberg. “Waiting and watching will only deepen the crisis.  It is game time.  We need a consensus package for voter approval on the November ballot and we need it now.” 

California’s water system was built to handle millions fewer people than currently live in the state and was designed to support a much smaller economy. Without improvements to secure a reliable supply of water for business, agriculture and population growth, California’s economic stability is severely threatened. 

In July, CalChamber issued a statement applauding Governor Schwarzenegger and Senator Feinstein for jumpstarting discussions on the water bond proposal. There are now two versions of a water bond in print, AB 8XX from the Assembly Democrats and AB 9XX from the Assembly Republicans. On Tuesday, CalChamber Vice President of Governmental Relations, Marc Burgat, testified at the informational hearing on AB8XX indicating support for a comprehensive solution. 

Marc Burgat highlights the importance of a comprehensive water bond package before a informational hearing at the State Capitol on August 26.

“We remain committed to working with the Governor and legislative leadership to produce a solution and are encouraged and hopeful that a legislative agreement can be reached and a measure placed before voters in November,” said Burgat.” Any solution offered to fix the water crisis must be a comprehensive one and include conservation, conveyance, storage and continuous appropriations of funds to ensure that these vital projects come to completion.”