CA AB1272

State Water Resources Control Board shall adopt principles and guidelines for water diversion and use in coastal watersheds during water shortage periods to support drought preparedness and climate resiliency, contingent on legislative appropriation of funds.

Guidelines apply only to coastal watersheds that drain to the Pacific Ocean, are located in water quality control board regions 1, 2, or 3, and are identified as priority recovery areas for native anadromous fish species under state or federal endangered species laws.

Guidelines exclude watersheds with low potential for diversions to affect fish survival, diversions downstream of reservoirs with over 100,000 acre-feet capacity subject to minimum instream flow requirements, and watersheds draining into southern San Francisco Bay.

State board may issue cease and desist orders and assess civil liability up to $500 per day for violations of adopted principles and guidelines.

State board shall allow at least 60 days of public comment and hearing before adopting principles and guidelines, and may identify incentives and infrastructure investments to help water users transition to sustainable water management practices.