Bill > AB2218

This bill formally apologizes on behalf of California for historical state-sanctioned mistreatment and removal of Native Americans from their ancestral lands, while establishing a formal state policy to support tribes in maintaining their cultural traditions and practicing ecosystem stewardship. To address historical inequities regarding water access and control, the legislation requires key environmental and water agencies—such as the State Water Resources Control Board, regional water quality control boards, and the Natural Resources Agency—to incorporate tribal protections, indigenous knowledge, and financial assistance into their policies, permits, and grants. Additionally, the bill mandates that if a dispute arises between a tribe and a state agency over the implementation of this water policy, the matter must be brought before the Governor’s Office of Tribal Affairs for a structured mediation and stay of agency action before any legal challenges can be filed in court. Finally, the legislation amends existing law to require the State Water Resources Control Board, when conducting investigations into water rights, to consult upon request with any California Native American tribe whose ancestral territory includes the body of water at issue.