Plain English Breakdown
The final status of the veto override is unknown based solely on the provided metadata, which only notes the last action was striking consideration from file.
Water Quality Certification Rules for Hydroelectric Facilities
This vetoed bill would require a public hearing before the state board approves water quality certifications for hydroelectric facilities if an applicant asks for one within 14 days of receiving a draft.
What This Bill Does
- Requires the State Water Resources Control Board to hold a public hearing at least 21 days before acting on applications for licenses to operate hydroelectric facilities, but only if requested by the applicant within 14 days of an initial draft certification being issued.
- Prohibits delegating the authority to issue certifications for hydroelectric facility licenses when a public hearing is requested.
- Allows the state board to charge fees up to the reasonable costs incurred in implementing these new rules.
Who It Names or Affects
- Applicants seeking licenses to operate hydroelectric facilities who need water quality certification.
- The State Water Resources Control Board responsible for issuing certifications and holding hearings.
Limits and Unknowns
- The governor vetoed this bill, so it did not become law unless lawmakers later overrode the veto.
- It is unclear from the provided text whether lawmakers voted to override the veto after January 22, 2026.