GRAY CELEBRATES CALIFORNIA WATER INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS, CALLS FOR MORE RESOURCES

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Gray (CA-13) today issued the below statement following the U.S. Department of the Interior's announcement of $540 million in funding from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) for California water infrastructure projects.

"Federal investments in Central Valley water infrastructure are crucial for our region's agricultural economy. While the funding announced this week is a step in the right direction, additional resources are necessary to ensure a reliable water supply throughout California. That is why when the House was considering the OBBBA last year, I proposed an amendment to fund the projects authorized in my Central Valley Water Solution Act at $8 billion. Unfortunately, the amendment was opposed by both Republicans and Democrats in the House. In the months ahead, I will continue to educate and work with my colleagues to pass my water legislative package and secure higher funding for water projects throughout the state."

In his first term in Congress, Congressman Gray has prioritized safeguarding water access for Central Valley farmers and producers. Last year, he introduced the End the California Water Crisis Package, a suite of bills that would authorize additional California water storage projects, ease permitting restrictions, and create enforceable timelines for environmental review processes.

Congressman Gray offered an amendment to the House Natural Resources Committee's reconciliation proposal to increase funding for Western Water to $8 billion. This would have funded 26 water storage and conveyance projects in the Central Valley. Congressman Gray was the sole Democratic vote in favor of sending the Committee's package to the House Floor for a final vote.