On June 18, 2025, the California State Assembly's Joint Legislative Audit Committee convened to discuss a contentious audit related to the Department of Water Resources (DWR) and its ongoing projects, particularly the Delta Conveyance Project. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding transparency, accountability, and the financial implications of the project, which is estimated to cost $20 billion.

Senator Cortese opened the discussion by expressing skepticism about DWR's commitment to transparency, citing a lack of clear information regarding the Kern Water Bank and the flow of water from the State Water Project and Central Valley Project. He emphasized the need for future audits that could address broader issues of transparency within DWR, suggesting that the current audit may not yield actionable recommendations unless the executive branch is willing to enforce them.

Senator Baljeres echoed these sentiments, questioning the timing and intent of the audit. He pointed out that the Delta Conveyance Project is still in its early design stages and has not met key funding or construction milestones. Baljeres raised concerns that the audit might serve to delay the project rather than improve oversight. He noted discrepancies in reported spending on the project, with DWR claiming it had not spent $700 million, while other reports indicated expenditures exceeding $400 million.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of the project, particularly its financial burden on ratepayers and the potential transfer of resources from one region of California to another. Baljeres stressed the importance of understanding the project's costs and its environmental impact, especially in light of California's ongoing budget deficit and the financial struggles faced by many residents.

Witnesses at the meeting reiterated the need for the audit, arguing that it would provide essential oversight of DWR's accounting processes and clarify the financial commitments associated with the Delta Conveyance Project. They acknowledged concerns about the potential for a new administration to disregard audit recommendations but maintained that the audit was crucial for informing the public about the project's implications.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored a growing demand for transparency and accountability in California's water management projects. As legislators grapple with the complexities of the Delta Conveyance Project, the outcome of the audit and its recommendations will be pivotal in shaping future discussions and decisions regarding water resources in the state. The committee's next steps will likely involve further scrutiny of DWR's practices and a push for clearer communication with the public about the project's financial and environmental ramifications.