Bill > SB697

This bill modifies California's water rights investigation and adjudication processes by updating the State Water Resources Control Board's authority and procedures for determining water rights within a stream system. The bill expands the board's investigative powers, allowing representatives to investigate water use in detail with the option (but not requirement) to conduct field investigations. If the board determines that the information provided by water users is inadequate, it can now issue information orders requiring claimants to submit monthly water use reports through a board-provided form. Claimants must respond to these orders within 75 days, and the board can request annual updates while an adjudication is pending. The bill also adds new requirements for the board when issuing information orders, such as providing a written explanation for the information request and identifying supporting evidence. Additionally, the bill allows the board to inspect properties related to water use and obtain inspection warrants if needed. The changes aim to improve the board's ability to gather comprehensive and accurate information during water rights investigations, ensuring more effective management of California's water resources.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Justice

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB697