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SB 811

RELATING TO STATE WATER CODE PENALTIES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 1 co-sponsor

Bill SB 811 increases penalties for State Water Code violations, aiming to enhance compliance and protect water resources, impacting all water users in the state.

Referred to WTL, JDC/WAM.
#cwrm #penalties #statewatercode
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Bill Summary · SB 811

Summary of Bill SB 811: Relating to State Water Code Penalties

Bill Number: SB 811
Introduced On: January 17, 2025
Status: Referred to WTL, JDC/WAM
Classification: Bill
Subject: CWRM, Penalties, State Water Code

Purpose and Intent

Bill SB 811 aims to amend the existing penalties outlined in the State Water Code. The primary intent of the bill is to enhance compliance with water management regulations by imposing stricter penalties for violations. This legislation seeks to ensure sustainable water use and protect water resources within the state.

Key Provisions

  • Increased Penalties: The bill proposes to increase the monetary fines for violations of the State Water Code. Specific amounts and structures for these fines are not detailed in the provided information but are expected to be more stringent than current penalties.

  • Enforcement Mechanisms: The bill may introduce new enforcement mechanisms or clarify existing ones to ensure that penalties are effectively applied and that violators are held accountable.

  • Compliance Incentives: While the bill focuses on penalties, it may also include provisions that encourage compliance among water users, although specific incentives are not mentioned in the summary.

Affected Parties

  • Water Users: Individuals, businesses, and organizations that utilize water resources in the state will be directly affected by the increased penalties. This includes agricultural, industrial, and residential water users.

  • Regulatory Agencies: The Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM) will play a crucial role in enforcing the new penalties and ensuring compliance with the State Water Code.

  • Environmental Advocates: Organizations focused on environmental protection may support the bill as it aims to promote sustainable water management practices.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:

    • January 17, 2025: Bill introduced.
    • January 21, 2025: Passed First Reading.
    • January 23, 2025: Referred to the Committees on Water and Land (WTL) and Judiciary and Ways and Means (JDC/WAM).

  • Related Legislation: SB 811 has a companion bill, HB 315, which may address similar issues or provide additional context to the proposed changes in penalties.

Conclusion

Bill SB 811 represents a significant step towards reinforcing the enforcement of water management regulations in the state. By increasing penalties for violations of the State Water Code, the bill aims to promote responsible water use and protect vital water resources. Stakeholders, including water users and regulatory agencies, will need to stay informed about the developments and implications of this legislation as it progresses through the legislative process.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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