Vacant Positions Sweep – Oppose Elimination of Fee-Based Positions Apr 23, 2025 Comment Letters To: The Honorable Gavin Newsom, The Honorable Mike McGuire, The Honorable Robert Rivas, The Honorable Scott Wiener, The Honorable Jesse Gabriel, The Honorable Ben Allen, The Honorable Steve Benett Subject: Vacant Positions Sweep—Oppose elimination of fee-based positions Letter: Budget Trail Bill language in 2003 (SB 1049) transitioned the funding of its waste discharge program, water rights program, water quality program, dam safety program from the General Fund to a fee-based system during the 2003–2004 fiscal year. This shift was part of a broader budget strategy to alleviate the state’s General Fund expenditures by increasing reliance on fees collected from regulated entities. This shift has saved California hundreds of millions of dollars over the last 20 years. Recycled water permit fees were just created in 2023 in recognition that to permit projects that will bring on new sources of water, consistent revenue to fund staff positions at the State and Regional Water Boards is imperative. Download Comment Letter
