Bill > AB1425

This bill prohibits pit dewatering in specific areas of the San Joaquin River Parkway where groundwater levels are less than 50 feet below ground or where there is subsurface river flow. Pit dewatering is defined as water that is impounded or collected in a pit and then pumped, drained, or removed by the pit operator, including wet pit overflows caused by direct rainfall or groundwater seepage. The legislation is specifically tailored to the unique environmental needs of the communities within and surrounding the San Joaquin River Parkway, as outlined in the "San Joaquin River Parkway Master Plan Update" from March 2018. The bill also makes a minor, non-substantive change to an existing provision about the State Geologist's ability to prepare mineral collections for world's fairs or expositions. The underlying intent appears to be protecting the ecological integrity of the river parkway by preventing activities that could potentially disrupt groundwater and surface water systems.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB1425