BILL ANALYSIS Ó
SCR 101
Page 1
Date of Hearing: August 28, 2012
ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON WATER, PARKS AND WILDLIFE
Ben Hueso, Chair
SCR 101 (Pavley) - As Introduced: June 26, 2012
SENATE VOTE : 29-2
SUBJECT : Los Angeles River revitalization
SUMMARY : Declares that the Legislature honors the plans and
achievements of many local and civic groups to revitalize and
enhance the Los Angeles River (L.A. River) and its San Fernando
Valley tributaries into a functional, connected ecosystem that
not only provides multiple flood control and water quality
benefits but also improved open spaces, safe public access and
artistic, cultural, educational and environmental opportunities.
FISCAL EFFECT : Nonfiscal
COMMENTS : The L.A. River has long been known for the famous
scene in the movie Grease where two hotrods race down its
freeway-looking concrete lined bed and banks. On October 12,
2011 the Senate Subcommittee on Urban Rivers held a joint
hearing with the Assembly Select Committee on Revitalization of
the Los Angeles River and Pacoima Wash to focus on the vision,
achievements, investments and dedication of local government
representatives, community groups, non-governmental
organizations and state and federal leaders who are changing
both that perception and reality for the L.A. River. In
particular, the joint hearing recognized the coordination and
collaboration that is, and will continue to be, necessary in
order to fund, improve, and maintain projects that create a
sustainable Los Angeles watershed. In addition, the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) testified at the
joint hearing regarding designating the L.A. River as a
navigable waterway in 2010, and subsequently selecting the L.A.
River as one of seven pilot projects nationwide under the Urban
Waters Federal Partnership. USEPA emphasized the potential of
the L.A. River to connect communities and create broad societal
benefits such as green infrastructure, groundwater
replenishment, and recreation thus resulting in job creation and
other economic opportunities.
Supporting arguments : The author advises that, to the best of
SCR 101
Page 2
her knowledge, the California Legislature has not previously
commended the significant efforts undertaken by numerous public
and private organizations, and individuals, to help develop a
long-term vision for the L.A. River. Supporters state that this
resolution "focuses on both the many successes thus far in
revitalizing the L.A. River and rivers in the San Fernando
Valley and on the pressing needs which remain to be addressed."
Previous legislation : SB 1201 (De León/2012) amended the Los
Angeles County Flood Control Act to provide access to navigable
waterways under the Los Angeles County Flood Control District's
control, including the L.A. River, where such access is suitable
for education and recreational purposes and not inconsistent
with flood control and water conservation uses. SB 1201 was
enrolled and presented to the Governor and awaits his action.
There is no opposition to this bill on file.
REGISTERED SUPPORT / OPPOSITION :
Support
Community Conservation Solutions
L.A. River Expeditions
Pacoima Beautiful
Save LA River Open Space
Opposition
None on file
Analysis Prepared by : Tina Cannon Leahy / W., P. & W. / (916)
319-2096