Gathered in Washington D.C. for ACWA's annual federal affairs conference, representatives of ACWA member agencies have spent this week meeting with congressional representatives, administration officials and staff. During this time, members have heard repeatedly about the political importance of passing Proposition 13, both for the immediate and long-term water future of California.

In his remarks opening the Washington conference, Interior Secretary Bruce Babbitt said that passage of Proposition 13 is very important because of the powerful message it sends to federal representatives. "If we make that happen," Babbitt said, "we will get a commitment from Congress to match funds."

Representative Ellen Tauscher (D - Walnut Creek) sits on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and has enlisted her support behind the water bond. She spoke about the bond on Tuesday, and said that "It's passage also sends a clear message to Washington: Californians are willing to step up to help protect their most precious natural resource."

The vote on Proposition 13 is only seven days away on Tuesday, March 7.

This update will be provided weekly to keep members up-to-date on the bond. For more information, contact ACWA Communications Department at (916) 441-4545.