Rep. Katie Porter (D-CA) reintroduced the Reclamation Climate Change and Water Program Reauthorization Act to renew a crucial program that monitors the country’s water supply and develops strategies to address water shortages. Unless Congress passes Porter’s bill, this important program will expire at the end of 2023.

“While winter storms provided a much-needed temporary boost in our water supply, California remains at risk for severe droughts, especially as climate change worsens,” said Rep. Porter. “This successful program equips local leaders with the tools they need to sustainably manage and supply water to Orange County residents.”

The Bureau of Reclamation has conducted numerous studies on water basins that directly supply Orange County and millions of Californians with fresh water. By working with federal, state, and local partners, experts are able to develop detailed water management plans that will help Californians get the water they need in the years to come. 

Rep. Porter’s bill was endorsed by California Environmental Voters. Rep. Melanie Ann Stansbury (D-NM) is an original cosponsor. 

Congresswoman Porter is a champion for environmental protection in Congress. Her same reauthorization proposal passed the House last year as part of the bipartisan Wildfire Prevention and Drought Resiliency Act, but the Senate failed to act. Porter’s legislation raising the royalty rate Big Oil must pay for drilling on public lands recently became law as part of the Inflation Reduction Act. She continues to call for more investment in infrastructure that makes California drought-resilient. 

Read the bill text HERE.

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