Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a bill requiring a countywide vote before a water district can “detach,” though it’s too late to prevent local votes in Fallbrook and Rainbow.
The two rural districts have sought to leave the San Diego County Water Authority for a cheaper, if potentially less reliable water supply from Riverside County.
Assembly Bill 399, introduced by Assemblymember Tasha Boerner of Encinitas and sponsored by the city of San Diego, expands voting requirements should agencies seek to withdraw from any county water authority.
The new law is effective Jan. 1, but the votes in Fallbrook and Rainbow are scheduled for Nov. 7.
“This is a simple matter of fairness,” said San Diego County Water Authority Board Chair Mel Katz. “The people whose rates would increase if a water district leaves the county water authority should have a say.”
“It’s gratifying that the state Legislature and the governor added these important protections for disadvantaged communities, working families, farmers, and others across San Diego County,” he added.