CA SB1218

Establishes state policy to encourage, but not mandate, development of emergency water supplies to support use during drought or unplanned service or supply disruption.

Defines "emergency water supplies" as water supplies identified in water shortage contingency plans or drought plans developed to increase water supplier reliability during drought or service disruption, beyond baseline supplies used during normal times.

Clarifies the policy does not require water suppliers to add or modify operations, demand management plans, or interfere with existing water rights or contractual agreements related to water exchange, conveyance, or storage.

Findings support the policy based on California's climate cycles of drought, climate change impacts on water resources, and the current low investment in emergency water supplies by most suppliers.