The State Water Resources Control Board – responsible for directing urban water suppliers to develop rate structures and other pricing mechanisms that maximize water conservation consistent with statewide water use restrictions – has solicited comments on the effectiveness of conservation water pricing. While many water suppliers have established rate structures and pricing mechanisms to incentivize water conservation, additional opportunities to increase water savings remain. Rate setting is a complex undertaking that involves numerous local determinations, and effective conservation water pricing must be carefully tailored to local circumstances.

CHA has submitted the attached comment letter to the State Water Board on behalf of hospitals, requesting that they be exempt from an increase in water fees or fines.

In addition, CHA will attend a July 8 public workshop on the topic hosted by the State Water Board. CHA continues to urge hospitals to actively participate in local discussions about the drought, water conservation measures and fees or fines.

A Notice of Public Workshop on Solicitation of Comments regarding Conservation Water Pricing and Implementation of Directive 8 of Executive Order B-29-15 has been posted on the State Water Board website.