California Assembly advances tribal water rights bill
New bill would expand tribal consultation in water decisions and establish state policy recognizing historical water inequities
The Karuk Tribe and the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians issued a joint statement saying a new bill that passed the California State Assembly marks “a significant step toward aligning California water policy with Tribal rights, stewardship, and justice.”
The bill, authored by Assemblymember Ash Kalra, would establish state policy recognizing water-related inequities caused by state-sanctioned acts of termination, removal and assimilation of California Native American tribes. Agencies including the State Water Resources Control Board, regional water quality control boards and the Natural Resources Agency would have to consider the policy when developing regulations, permits and grant criteria. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
The bill, according to its supporters, would also expand consultation with tribes during certain water rights investigations. Karuk Tribe Chairman Russell "Buster" Attebery said California tribes lost access to water, traditional foods and cultural resources under the state's water rights system. The legislation would require specified state agencies to incorporate tribal consultation and other measures related to tribal water uses, water projects and water policy decisions.
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