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SB 1085

Water supply planning: housing developments.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ben Allen and 5 co-sponsors

SB 1085 modifies CEQA environmental review requirements for California water supply planning decisions to streamline approval processes for water agencies.

From committee: Do pass and re-refer to Com. on APPR. (Ayes 10. Noes 0.) (July 1). Re-referred to Com. on APPR.
#watersupplyplanning #housingdevelopments
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Bill Summary · SB 1085

Legislative bill overview

SB 1085 modifies California's environmental review process for water supply planning by adjusting how the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) applies to water supply determinations. The bill streamlines or alters CEQA requirements specifically for water-related planning decisions made by state or local water agencies.

Why is this important

Water supply planning is critical infrastructure for California's drought-prone economy and rapidly growing population. CEQA compliance significantly extends project timelines and increases costs, so changes to its application directly affect how quickly water systems can be developed, modified, or secured—impacting both urban and agricultural water availability and affordability.

Potential points of contention

  • Environmental protection vs. speed: Reducing CEQA requirements may accelerate water projects but could limit public scrutiny of environmental impacts on ecosystems, groundwater, and water quality
  • Stakeholder access: Changes to environmental review processes may reduce opportunities for community groups, environmental organizations, and affected residents to participate in decisions affecting their water resources
  • Equity concerns: Water supply decisions disproportionately affect low-income communities and agricultural regions; streamlined processes may disadvantage those with fewer resources to participate in faster timelines

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

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