summary
Introduced
02/14/2025
02/14/2025
In Committee
06/05/2025
06/05/2025
Crossed Over
05/27/2025
05/27/2025
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
An act to amend Sections 1882.1 and 1882.3 of the Civil Code, and to amend Section 53069.45 of, and to add Section 53069.46 to, the Government Code, relating to water theft.
AI Summary
This bill addresses water theft from fire hydrants by expanding legal provisions to more effectively deter and penalize unauthorized water use. The legislation adds new provisions to the Civil Code and Government Code that specifically target theft from fire hydrants, which is typically conducted by commercial actors for profit. The bill allows utilities to bring civil actions against individuals who tamper with fire hydrants or divert water without authorization, and creates a legal presumption of water theft in certain circumstances. Local agencies are now authorized to adopt ordinances prohibiting unauthorized fire hydrant connections, with escalating administrative fines for violations: first violations can result in fines up to $2,500, second violations up to $5,000, and third or subsequent violations up to $10,000. The bill emphasizes that such theft undermines water conservation efforts, can potentially contaminate drinking water sources, damage water infrastructure, and ultimately increases costs for ratepayers. Importantly, the legislation prevents local agencies from imposing duplicate fines for the same offense and maintains that other legal remedies remain available under existing laws.
Committee Categories
Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Assembly Local Government Hearing (13:30:00 6/18/2025 State Capitol, Room 447) (on 06/18/2025)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
Document Type | Source Location |
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State Bill Page | https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB394 |
BillText | https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB394#99INT |
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