Law Makers Aim To Extend Emergency Water Regulations for Scott and Shasta River Watersheds

Scott and Shasta River watersheds have faced significant water management challenges.

The California State Assembly is advancing legislation (AB 263) that would extend emergency water regulations for the Scott and Shasta River watersheds until January 1, 2031, or until permanent rules establishing long-term instream flow requirements are adopted, whichever comes first.

The bill, co-sponsored by Assemblymembers Chris Rogers (D) and Damon Connolly (D), amends Section 1058.5 of the Water Code. It received committee approval on April 23, 2025, with 11 votes in favor and 4 opposed, and is currently moving through the floor process in the Assembly.

The legislation specifically targets emergency regulations adopted to prevent waste and unreasonable use of water, promote conservation, require curtailment of diversions when water isn’t available under priority rights, and mandate reporting of water diversion or use. These regulations currently apply during critically dry years preceded by multiple below-normal, dry, or critically dry years, or during drought-related states of emergency.