Here's what we won in the state budget this year!

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Friend,

With the end of summer comes the end of California’s legislative and budget cycles, and we have a lot to celebrate. We also have more work to do toward equitable and resilient water access and more good union water jobs.

Along with our labor, environmental, and community allies, LAANE’s Water Justice LA campaign advocated for water affordability and for $1.5 billion in the state budget for long-term climate-resilient water investments. With support from over 50 organizations, we wrote letters and social media posts, collected over 1,600 petition signatures, and met with dozens of legislative offices.

After reviewing the final 2022 budget, we are excited to see close to $2 billion for drought resilience, affordability, and clean drinking water, with another $1 billion more for other water investments - up from $500 million for drought resilience in the initial January proposal.

This victory is thanks to our allies’ advocacy and the leadership of state elected officials including Senate Pro Tem Atkins, Speaker Rendon, Senators Durazo, Laird, and Stern, Assemblymembers Calderon, Santiago, Friedman, and L. Rivas, and Governor Newsom.

Some highlights:
* Over $600 million for wastewater recycling projects over multiple years, including earmarks for specific projects like MWD’s Pure Water Southern California project;
* Over $100 million available for stormwater capture and cleanup projects, including the City of Los Angeles’ Hollenbeck Park Lake Rehabilitation;
* $400 million for clean water and drinking water, and an additional $250 million to address PFAS contaminants;
* At least $175 million for efficiency and conservation programs.

Advocates, led by Community Water Center, Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability, and Clean Water Action, continue to champion water affordability, pursuing a statewide water and wastewater rate assistance program for all low-income households.

We will keep working together to secure the resources we need for local, sustainable, clean and affordable water and good union water jobs.


Thank you for your collaboration and commitment!
Be sure to stay updated with our campaign by following us on social media!
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In Solidarity,

Lauren Ahkiam
Director, Water Justice LA Campaign
LAANE is a leading advocacy organization dedicated to building a new economy for all. Combining dynamic research, innovative public policy and the organizing of broad alliances, LAANE promotes a new economic approach based on good jobs, thriving communities, and a healthy environment.
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