Garamendi supports new water resources act benefiting California

U.S. Representative John Garamendi (D-CA08) has successfully contributed to the passage of the "Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024" (S.4367) in the House of Representatives, with a bipartisan vote tallying 399 to 18. The legislation aims to address water infrastructure needs across California and the nation.

Garamendi emphasized the importance of this act, stating, "The Water Resources Development Act passed today continues our bipartisan tradition of meeting the water infrastructure needs of communities across California and the country." He further highlighted that as a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, he was able to secure provisions for Mare Island, Bay Area wetlands restoration, and improvements in local water supply within California's 8th Congressional District.

As a senior Democratic member on the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment, Garamendi plays a significant role in overseeing civil works projects managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He credited Ranking Member Grace Napolitano for her leadership since 2014, saying, “The legislation would not have been possible without the leadership of my longtime friend and incredible public servant, Ranking Member Grace Napolitano."

Key provisions secured by Garamendi include several projects aimed at enhancing water resources in both regional and state areas:

For the Bay Area:

- A feasibility study for deepening Mare Island Strait Channel.

- A comprehensive study on sea level rise impacts in San Francisco Bay.

- Additional funding for East Bay Integrated Recycled Water Program.

- Federal funding authorization for central Contra Costa County water supply projects.

- Restoration initiatives using dredged materials for Bay Area wetlands.

Regionally:

- Sacramento River floodplain restoration.

- Additional funding to combat invasive species in Lake Tahoe.

Statewide:

- Expansion of vessel removal authority under existing laws.

- Establishment of policies promoting drought resiliency measures.

- Infrastructure improvement funding through recreational boating fees at reservoirs.

- Reauthorization of dam safety programs under FEMA until 2028.

- Levee safety initiatives extended through 2030.

This legislative effort is poised to strengthen community resilience against climate change threats while ensuring environmental protection and improved water resource management across California.