Jun 21, 2019
Today's discussion includes many activities at the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) and in the State Capitol. Emily highlights leadership changes at the Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) and ongoing discussions at the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) regarding fees and an effort to reduce compliance costs for the various permitting programs.
On the Legislative front, there have been changes to the drinking water effort and Tricia walks through where we are on the state budget process. A number of "budget trailer bills" have been moving through the Legislature containing important policy changes. Additionally, the Governor is working hard on expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and we expect a vote on that in the coming weeks as well.
**PLEASE NOTE: This podcast was recorded prior to the pesticide exposure incident in Tulare County affecting farmworkers on June 18. The farmworkers were treated by first responders, with a few taken to the hospital, and we are thankful they felt better after being treated. Farmers care deeply about the health and safety of their employees. Farmers take every precaution to protect the well-being of farmworkers and follow strict laws and regulations pertaining to the application of pesticides. For further information about the incident, please go to this link HERE for an ABC30 news story.