The Assembly Local Government Committee of the California State Assembly convened on June 18, 2025, to address critical issues surrounding water theft, a growing concern for public water agencies across the state. The meeting highlighted the serious implications of this illegal activity on water delivery systems and local communities.

Water theft, particularly from hydrants, has emerged as a significant threat to the ability of public water agencies to provide safe and affordable drinking water. The committee discussed how sophisticated commercial entities are increasingly using specialized tools to illegally extract water for various purposes, including construction and landscaping. This practice not only damages hydrants but also risks contaminating water supplies and lowering water pressure, which can hinder emergency firefighting efforts.

The financial impact of water theft is substantial, as the costs associated with lost water and necessary repairs ultimately fall on law-abiding ratepayers, leading to increased water rates. Current penalties for water theft range from $1,000 for the first violation to $3,000 for subsequent offenses, but these fines have proven insufficient as some offenders view them merely as a cost of doing business.

To combat this issue, the committee proposed a bill to increase penalties for water theft significantly. The new structure would impose fines of up to $2,500 for the first violation, $5,000 for the second, and $10,000 for the third and any additional violations. The bill also aims to eliminate the one-year reset on penalties and allows local agencies to pursue full damages through civil action.

The intent behind these proposed changes is to deter water theft before it occurs, protecting both the integrity of water systems and the financial interests of local communities. The committee received support from local water district representatives, including Dave Peterson from the Las Virgenes Municipal Water District, who emphasized the need for stronger measures against this growing problem.

As discussions continue, the committee's focus on enhancing penalties for water theft underscores the urgent need to safeguard California's water resources and ensure equitable access for all residents.