Sanger, CA July 24, 2019 – The Safe and Affordable Drinking Water Fund Coalition released the following statement today from Phoebe Seaton, Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director of Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability; Jonathan Nelson, Policy Director, Community Water Center; and Jennifer Clary, Water Programs Manager, Clean Water Action after Governor Newsom signed an urgency bill that, along with the budget bill passed on June 13, will deliver $1.4 billion over 11 years to finally realize California’s promise of safe water for all:
“Governor Newsom’s signature on SB 200 is a historic moment for the communities across our state who have worked for decades to secure the human right to safe, affordable drinking water. Through tireless work, organizing, advocacy and education, they raised awareness of and demanded justice for the one million Californians living with toxic taps.
“We are especially grateful to Governor Newsom, Speaker Rendon and pro Tem Atkins, Senator Monning and Assemblymember Garcia for hearing communities’ voices and ensuring 2019 is the year California makes history.
“When fully implemented, the Safe and Affordable Drinking Water Fund will mean freedom from fear for Californians turning on the tap for water to drink, bathe in, cook or make baby formula. This sustainable funding will make a life-changing difference for California communities facing high costs and serious health threats from contaminated water.”
“As Governor Newsom’s signature closes one chapter in our historic march toward justice, it begins a new phase in which communities will be vigilant that these funds are used swiftly and surely to realize the human right to safe, affordable drinking water across California.”