Assemblymember Diane Papan Introduces Legislation to Prevent Politically Motivated and Potentially Dangerous Stored Water Releases

Sacramento, CA – Assemblymember Diane Papan has introduced Assembly Bill (AB) 1146, legislation to prevent the unnecessary and harmful discharge of California water from reservoirs under false pretenses.

The bill would prohibit the release of California’s stored water if it is carried out under knowingly false or fraudulent representations regarding the purpose or intended use of the water. The legislation would empower the State Water Resources Control Board to issue interim relief orders to stop unlawful water releases and ensure that California’s water, its storage and planning efforts remain protected from external political interference. Importantly, the bill would provide that any person who violates these provisions would be guilty of a misdemeanor.

"California’s water is one of our most precious resources, and its management must be based on sound science and careful planning—not political gamesmanship," said Assemblymember Diane Papan. "AB 1146 ensures that our water is managed responsibly and not subject to the whims of those who prioritize politics over public safety."

In January 2025, the ordered release of more than 2 billion gallons of California water from reservoirs was widely criticized as unnecessary and disruptive to the state’s delicate water storage system. Experts have warned that such politically motivated decisions could have devastating consequences, including increased flood risks and water shortages during critical dry periods.

"California will not stand idly by while attempts are made to manipulate our water supply for political theater," Papan continued. "With AB 1146, we are taking the necessary steps to prevent future abuses and to safeguard our reservoirs from unnecessary and dangerous California water releases that threaten our environment and communities. Once wasted, these resources are irreplaceable."

The bill will be heard in the Assembly Committee on Water, Parks & Wildlife in the coming weeks.

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