SACRAMENTO - A bill to help communities gain access to clean drinking water was approved on the Assembly floor Thursday.

Assembly Bill 2238-Regional Water Solutions was introduced by Assemblymember Henry T. Perea (D-Fresno) and would encourage studies on the consolidation of water systems in small towns to be utilized by the Department of Public Health (CDPH) as a way to improve access to clean and affordable water and wastewater services.

"People living in small towns not too far from all of us can't turn on their sink to get safe water for drinking, cooking or even showering," Assemblymember Perea said. "Making sure funds are available to consolidate water improvement projects in small towns is a step towards improving the quality of life for thousands of people."

AB 2238 would require CDPH to promote the consolidation of small water systems as well as prioritize funding for projects involving consolidation.

Supporters of Regional Water Solutions include, California Rural Legal Assistance Foundation, Community Water Center, Clean Water Action and Policy Link.

AB 2238 moves to the Senate for further discussion.

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Assemblymember Henry T. Perea represents the 31st District in the California State Assembly which includes the central San Joaquin Valley communities of Cutler-Orosi, Dinuba, Firebaugh, Fowler, Kerman, Mendota, Parlier, Reedley, Sanger, San Joaquin, Selma and the city of Fresno.

Contact: Alisha Gallon 661-364-3655