Congressman Garamendi Speaks Out to Oppose H.R. 23, the so-called “GROW” Act

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman John Garamendi (D-Fairfield, Davis, Yuba City, CA), who represents the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, spoke on the House floor to oppose H.R. 23, which would override California water law and allow nearly unregulated pumping of water from the Delta, threatening the local economy, water quality, and wildlife. Unfortunately, the bill passed by a 230-190 vote.

“We have legislative amnesia,” said Garamendi. “Just 7 months ago, Senator Feinstein and Majority Leader McCarthy passed the bipartisan WIIN Act, a piece of legislation that actually expands California’s water supplies and uses a science-based approach to increase pumping levels while maintaining critical species protections. It also funds water supply infrastructure improvements. But H.R.23 contains the same radical provisions that have repeatedly died in Congress over the last five years. Why recycle a partisan bill that overrides California water law and allows for nearly unrestricted pumping that risks permanent damage to Delta communities and wildlife?”

“Instead of bringing back zombie legislation over and over again, it’s time to focus on implementing the WIIN Act, which will create new water, build infrastructure, and improve California’s drought resilience.”