House Democrats Call Out GOP on Drought's Economic Impact after Amendments are Excluded from Valadao Bill

Statement

A group of House Democrats are calling out House Republicans for not taking into account the impact that the Valadao drought legislation will have on the economies of the Delta farming and Northern California and Oregon fishing communities, or the larger impact on communities across California. Reps. Jerry McNerney (CA-09), Jared Huffman (CA-02), and Peter DeFazio (OR-04), offered a pair of amendments that would require the legislation to take economic impact into consideration. Those amendments were not adopted.

"Once again, with the rejection of these amendments, the Republicans are refusing to come to the table with any real, long-term solutions to respond to California's drought crisis. The Republican proposal does not create new water, and it promotes destructive strategies with no concern for how this plan will reduce agricultural jobs, and hurt local economies and industries across the Delta region, said Rep. Jerry McNerney. "At the same time, it is unacceptable that the Republicans would also block efforts to ensure this legislation does not have harmful effects on water quality, saltwater contamination, and available water resources for families and agricultural producers alike. California is struggling with severe conditions, and our communities should not continue to suffer while Republicans try to have it both ways. I am committed to working with all of my colleagues who want to pursue bold, forward-thinking solutions to help California better manage its water supply."

Rep. McNerney's amendment would have blocked the implementation of any provision in H.R. 2898 that results in reductions in agricultural employment and recreational opportunities for the five Delta counties: Contra Costa County, Sacramento County, San Joaquin County, Solano County, and Yolo County, California.

Source