Biden-Harris Administration Announces Over Half a Billion for California Water Infrastructure
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a historic investment of over half a billion dollars ($510,054,000) for California’s drinking water and clean water infrastructure upgrades under President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. This funding is part of the larger $50 billion water infrastructure upgrade investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, marking the largest such investment in American history. Nearly half of the funds will be available as grants or principal forgiveness loans, prioritizing disadvantaged and underserved communities. EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the transformative impact of this investment on communities, ensuring safer drinking water and rebuilding vital clean water infrastructure for long-term public health protection. Read more here.

 

AB 818 Annual Compliance Report
The second annual AB 818 Compliance Report, prepared by Responsible Flushing Alliance was released earlier this month. This report details the mandatory consumer education campaign regarding the “Do Not Flush” symbol for non-flushable wipes, the wipes collection study, plans for 2024 and more. The 2023 Annual Compliance Report has been provided to the Senate and Assembly environmental policy committees and has also been posted on the State Water Board website. Please reach out to us with any questions.

 

Women in Water Connected Series
Registration is open for NACWA’s Core Leadership Women in Water ConnectEd Series! This three-part virtual series is designed to empower women in the water sector who want to reignite professional goals that may have taken a backseat but are now ready for pursuit.

Whether you’re aiming to reset a professional aspiration or refine your focus, this series is your platform for growth. Connect with women in water nationwide as you explore strategies for staying laser-focused on your chosen goal while prioritizing self-care and other competing demands. Participants will also gain a support network to hold you accountable and help you cross the finish line. The enrollment deadline is April 11. Don’t wait – view more information and register today!

 

Committee Seeks Suggestions for Potential CASA Board Members
The CASA Nominating Committee, chaired by CASA Secretary-Treasurer Tony Trembley, will convene in early spring to consider CASA Board of Directors candidates for the August 2024 ballot. The committee will be recommending candidates for four of the twelve elected seats. CASA attempts to include geographic diversity as well as a balance of agency managers and elected officials on our Board. This year we anticipate one “open” seat for a Southern California elected official. Ideal candidates will be familiar with CASA as an organization and preferably will have served on or actively participated in CASA workgroups, committees and events. If you know someone who would be a valuable board member, please send a brief email to Nominations@casaweb.org with their name, agency and a few sentences about his or her qualifications. Please send your recommendation by March 15, 2024.