Senate Approves CALFED Authorization
November 20, 2002
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Washington, DC - The U.S. Senate last night approved legislation sponsored by Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and Barbara Boxer that would authorize continued federal participation in CALFED and would also authorize federal funds which are appropriated.

This bill will help restore California's endangered water ecosystem and enhance California's water supply, reliability and quality to ensure adequate resources for the future.

"The bill that the Senate approved last night was a modest step forward for CALFED, which I believe will generate momentum for further action next year," Senator Feinstein said. "This legislation will allow the federal government to continue its role as a partner with the State of California in the CALFED program. It also provides the authorization needed for CALFED to receive appropriated federal dollars."

"The energy crisis we experienced two years ago in California foreshadows what could happen with water if we fail to plan ahead. California's water infrastructure was built in the 1960s to accommodate 16 million people. But the population has now grown to 34 million and is projected to reach 50 million by 2020. That is why it is so critical that we address this problem now."

"I have been saying for these past two years that we should learn from the mistakes made with energy and address the water challenge before it reaches crisis proportions. Last night, the Senate took a step toward resolving the problem and ensuring an adequate water supply for the State of California. And building on this authorization, I will introduce legislation with Senators Boxer and Kyl next year that authorizes specific projects. "

Specifically, the CALFED Bay-Delta Program Authorization:

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