It seems likely that maintaining instream flows supports threatened salmon populations, vital for ecology and tribal heritage, but may limit water for farmers.
Bill Advances in Senate
On June 10, 2025, Assembly Bill 263 (AB-263) passed the Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee with a unanimous 6-0 vote and is now under review in the Senate Appropriations Committee . Introduced by Assembly Member Chris Rogers on January 16, 2025, the bill extends emergency regulations ensuring minimum water flows in the Scott and Shasta Rivers until January 1, 2031, or until permanent rules are set, to protect salmon while addressing agricultural needs.
