SB 1201 Summary

• Amends the Los Angeles County Flood Control Act to authorize the Los Angeles County Flood Control District to provide public use of navigable waterways under its control for recreational and educational purposes, provided these uses do not interfere with flood control and water conservation operations.

• Establishes legislative findings that the Los Angeles River has been designated a "Traditional Navigable Water" under the federal Clean Water Act and is subject to California's public trust doctrine, requiring public access and use.

• Recognizes the Environmental Protection Agency's 2011 designation of the Los Angeles River as part of the Urban Waters Federal Partnership and its inclusion in the federal America's Great Outdoors Initiative, reflecting federal interest in river revitalization.

• Acknowledges existing master plans from Los Angeles County and municipalities calling for Los Angeles River revitalization with multiple benefits including environmental enhancement, flood storage improvement, water quality improvement, economic development, and increased open space.