Two Central Valley Democrats are pitching a new water bill designed to protect water access for the region’s farmers. Rep. Adam Gray (D–Merced) introduced the Valley Water Protection Act last week and was joined by Rep. Jim Costa (D–Fresno). The Valley Water Protection Act would amend the Endangered Species Act (ESA) to protect farmers from enforcement actions that could pose national security threats or regional economic harm. … The bill has widespread support from water users across the Central Valley, including the Turlock Irrigation District, the Merced Irrigation District, the Modesto Irrigation District, the San Luis and Delta-Mendota Water Authority and the Friant Water Authority. … Along with Gray’s bill, Westerman introduced the Endangered Species Act Amendments Act of 2025, which would streamline the ESA permitting process and establish clear definitions within the act. 

Other Central Valley water access news:

• Congressman Adam Gray: News release: Congressman Gray introduces Valley Water Protection Act
• Turlock Journal (Calif.): Congressman Gray introduces Valley Water Protection Act
• SJV Water: Kern districts approve groundwater plan amendments