Natural Resources Agency: State Water Project Commission.

Under existing law, the Department of Water Resources operates the State Water Resources Development System, known as the State Water Project, in accordance with the California Water Resources Development Bond Act to supply water to persons and entities in the state. Under existing law, the State Water Project is comprised of the State Water Facilities, as defined in the bond act, and additions determined by the department to be necessary and desirable. This bill would establish within the Natural Resources Agency the State Water Project Commission, consisting of 9 members appointed by the Governor and subject to confirmation by the Senate, including one member nominated by the Butte County Board of Supervisors. By imposing a new duty on the Butte County Board of Supervisors, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The bill would transfer authority over and relating to the State Water Project from the department to the commission, as specified. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.