Governor Signs Senator Cortese's Bill Building Water Efficiency in New Buildings

New buildings in California will become more water efficient following Governor Newsom’s approval of SB 745 by Senator Dave Cortese, which requires new state building standards to drop water usage while adopting designs that capture recycled water for building and landscaping uses. These standards will incorporate systems for reusing water and treating graywater, plumbing that intakes greater amounts of recycled water, and using alternative water sources.

Buildings remain in operation for up to a century before they are replaced. In response to the hotter and drier conditions caused by climate change, California must adapt by reducing the amount of drinkable water that new buildings use for non-drinking purposes.

“California’s snowpack is shriveling up under the feverish burn of climate change. Estimates show that by 2050, our state will receive just two-thirds of the snow that has historically blanketed our mountains and trickled down into our reservoirs,” said Senator Cortese (D-San Jose). “California needs to adapt by cutting the amount of water used in new buildings. SB 745 is a crucial step toward fortifying California against the persistent water shortages and droughts that will intensify in the coming years.”

“Californians must face up to the fact that climate change is reducing the state’s water supply at the same time that we’re trying to dramatically increase our building stock. With buildings lasting up to a century, it’s critical to start drought-proofing new construction,” said Mike Hartley, Executive Director of the California State Pipe Trades Council. “We applaud Governor Newsom and Senator Cortese for getting ahead of this problem and moving California forward with the approval of SB 745.”

Senator Dave Cortese represents Senate District 15, which encompasses San Jose and much of Santa Clara County in the heart of Silicon Valley. Visit Senator Cortese’s website: https://sd15.senate.ca.gov

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