Signing these bills establishes statewide water efficiency standards and a framework for the implementation of the new standards, which must be in place by 2022. The two bills help strengthen the State's water resiliency in the face of uncertain water conditions.

Provisions include:

  • Establishing an indoor water use goal of 55 gallons per person per day until 2025, 52.5 gallons from 2025 to 2030 and 50 gallons beginning 2030;
  • Creating incentives for water suppliers such as IEUA to recycle water;
  • Requiring both urban and agricultural water suppliers to set annual water budgets and prepare for drought.

"This significant action demonstrates how California is coming together to protect this vital resource. Using water wisely - not wasting water - is critical to providing a resilient water supply," stated IEUA Board President Steve Elie. "These new water efficiency standards follow the Governor's recent mandate to make conservation a California way of life and shifts our focus to eliminating water wasting practices."

"As an agency, we will continue to do our part by working closely with our partner and member agencies and the communities we serve to develop action plans and programs that will assist in water use efficiency measures and help preserve our water supply," continued Elie.

To view the official press release from the Office of the Governor, visit https://www.gov.ca.gov/2018/05/31/governor-brown-signs-legislation-establishing-statewide-water-efficiency-goals/.

Inland Empire Utilities Agency