Bill > SB317

This bill establishes a comprehensive statewide wastewater surveillance program called the California Surveillance of Wastewaters (Cal-SuWers) network, administered by the State Department of Public Health, to monitor pathogens, toxins, and other public health indicators through wastewater testing. The program aims to provide early detection of infectious diseases like COVID-19, influenza, mpox, and antimicrobial-resistant pathogens, building on lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participation in the network will be voluntary for local health departments and wastewater treatment facilities, and the department is authorized to coordinate with healthcare providers, emergency response agencies, and other entities to use the surveillance data for early intervention, outbreak response, and public health planning. The bill recognizes the importance of wastewater surveillance, particularly in addressing gaps in monitoring for rural, underserved, and high-risk areas, and in supporting California's agricultural economy and food supply chain. The department will be permitted to communicate findings through a publicly accessible website that provides real-time data visualization, educational materials, and current information for residents, public health officials, and policymakers. Additionally, the department may seek external funding sources, including private donations and grants, to support the implementation of the wastewater surveillance program.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB317