Senate Passes Atkins’ Bill to Protect San Diego River

The California Senate today passed SB 214, legislation by Sen. Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) that will strengthen the capacity of the San Diego River Conservancy to  protect and enhance historic, cultural, and natural resources within the watershed along the 52-mile San Diego River. The vote was 33 to 5. The measure now moves on to the Assembly.

SB 214 adds representation from the City of Santee and the Kumeyaay Diegueño Land Conservancy to the conservancy’s Board of Directors. It also provides the conservancy with greater ability to enter into joint-powers agreements.

“In 2015, the governor signed AB 392, my bill to make the San Diego River Conservancy permanent,” Atkins said. “SB 214 is the next step, giving the conservancy additional tools to improve the watershed and bringing important local voices to the table. I thank my Senate colleagues for moving this legislation forward.”

Ben Clay, chair of the San Diego River Conservancy’s Board of Directors, said: “On behalf of the Board of Directors of the San Diego River Conservancy, I would like to thank Senator Atkins for all of her tireless efforts and support in helping the Conservancy accomplish its mission in protecting the San Diego River, while also enhancing the recreational activities along the river from the ocean to the mountains in Julian. SB 214 is another step in accomplishing that mission."