CASA’s Wipes Legislation Moves Through First Committee!

AB 1672 (Bloom), CASA’s sponsored legislation on labeling non-flushable and flushable wipes, was heard by the Assembly Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials Committee on April 9. The legislation, which included CASA supported amendments that strengthened the bill, passed with a vote of six to three. Thank you to all the CASA members who submitted letters of support!

On April 23, the bill will be heard in the Assembly Judiciary Committee. Letters of support for the Committee are due today. It is critical for legislators to be made aware of real problems caused by wipes in their local communities. To assist your agency write letters of support, CASA has developed a template letter, and we have an updated support letter as well. Please submit your support letters through the new legislative portal system.

For updates about the legislation and materials to help spread the word, visit the CASA Wipes webpage.

 

URGENT: Opposition Letters Due Tomorrow – Ocean Discharge Ban Legislation

On April 3, SB 332 (Hertzberg) moved out of the Senate Environmental Quality Committee with a vote of five to two. CASA continues to oppose this bill. It would mandate all wastewater agencies that discharge treated effluent to oceans, bays and estuaries to reduce their discharges by 50 percent by 2030 and by 95 percent by 2040. Although the bill was passed on, several committee members expressed significant concerns with the issues raised in CASA’s opposition letter and committee analysis.

The bill will be heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee on April 23. Opposition letters are due tomorrow. Please submit your letters of opposition via email to sjud.fax@sen.ca.gov. A template opposition letter is available as well as an updated coalition letter.

 

Congressional Recess Provides Opportunity to Discuss Permit Terms Legislation

Congress is on spring recess through April 24. During this time, many members of the California delegation will be working in their congressional districts. This presents the opportunity for your agency to meet with your congressional representative about H.R. 1764 legislation to extend NPDES permit terms.

If you have the opportunity to meet with your member, please emphasize the importance of their support and encourage them to co-sponsor this significant legislation. CASA’s coalition letter and a template letter for your agency support can be found here.