Kings County Times

Congressman David Valadao and Congressman Jim Costa have introduced two legislative proposals aimed at tackling California's water issues. The bills, named the Groundwater Technical Assistance Act and the Every Drop Counts Act, are designed to enhance federal support for water storage and groundwater recharge in the Central Valley.

Congressman Valadao emphasized the importance of these measures, stating, "As a dairy farmer and lifelong resident of the Central Valley, I know firsthand the devastating impacts of water shortages on our agricultural industry, communities, and economy. Water is the lifeblood of our region, and these pieces of legislation take essential steps to maximize water storage, recharge groundwater, and ensure California has access to this vital resource. With these improvements, we can better address the challenges of drought, stabilize our water tables, and secure our water future."

His colleague Congressman Costa highlighted how these bills build on previous efforts: "Groundwater recharge is one of the most effective ways to build resilience against drought. These bipartisan bills build on the success of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law by leveraging federal resources for groundwater recharge projects that provide long-term solutions to safeguard the San Joaquin Valley from the impacts of extreme drought."

Several organizations back each bill. Supporters of the Groundwater Technical Assistance Act include Tulare Irrigation District and Self-Help Enterprises among others. The Every Drop Counts Act is supported by entities like Friant Water Authority and Idaho Water Resource Board.

The Groundwater Technical Assistance Act aims to offer funding under existing infrastructure laws for various groundwater projects without requiring new spending. Meanwhile, the Every Drop Counts Act seeks to modify current programs to increase project eligibility for additional funding opportunities.

These legislative efforts reflect an ongoing commitment by lawmakers to address water scarcity challenges in California's Central Valley.