Golden State Today

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom issued a statement today regarding the additional $103 million in funding allocated to tackle the Tijuana River sewage crisis as part of the FY 2024 appropriations package.

Governor Newsom expressed gratitude for the increased funding, stating, "The package announced today secures urgently needed federal funding – over $100 million more than last year – to help repair the federal South Bay plant and fix the sewage crisis that San Diego communities have dealt with for far too long." He highlighted the significance of this allocation as a crucial step forward in addressing the persistent issue.

Emphasizing the collaborative efforts involved in securing the funding, Governor Newsom acknowledged the contributions of various stakeholders, saying, "This is important progress to address the ongoing challenge, and I thank Senators Padilla and Butler, our Congressional delegation, local and state partners, and all the leaders who have pushed for years to deliver these needed resources."

Governor Newsom also underscored the urgency of the situation, urging prompt action from Congress, "Congress must act quickly to approve this funding, our communities cannot afford to wait."

The partnership between the Newsom Administration, the Biden-Harris Administration, Senators Padilla and Butler, the San Diego County Congressional delegation, and state and local leaders has been instrumental in advocating for federal intervention to address contamination in the cross-border river. Efforts have been focused on the rehabilitation and expansion of the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant.

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