California Legislature Sends AB 59 to Governor’s Desk to Power Local Farms with Clean Energy

(SACRAMENTO, CA) — The California State Legislature passed Assembly Bill 59 (AB 59) on Wednesday, September 3 with a 79-0 vote. Authored by Assembly Majority Leader Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters), this bill makes the authority of Reclamation District 108 (RD 108) to develop hydropower permanent. The bill now heads to Governor Newsom for consideration.

“Reclamation District 108 can now plan clean energy projects with certainty, helping our farmers cut costs and support a more sustainable future,” said Aguiar-Curry. “Out here, every dollar counts and every drop of water and bit of energy matters.”

AB 59 eliminates the 2026 sunset date on Reclamation District 108’s hydropower authority. Serving nearly 48,000 acres in Colusa and Yolo counties, the bill ensures RD 108 can invest in affordable, renewable energy projects like small canal based hydropower facilities. The bill is sponsored by the Northern California Water Association and supported by Colusa County, Yolo County, and the California Central Valley Flood Control Association.

“By giving people the certainty they need, we’re supporting family farms, protecting our land, and building a more sustainable future for the next generation,” concluded Aguiar-Curry.

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