California's Unstoppable Movement for the Human Right to Water

In California, where communities are grappling with a growing water crisis, the need for a human-right-to-water policy is urgent.

Over 150,000 Californians lack enough safe, affordable water for their drinking, food, and bathing needs. The state lacks a statewide lifeline water rate, like those for energy and phone services. When costs become too high, families risk losing their water service entirely.

UUSC and the UU Legislative Ministry of California are teaming up with local environmentalists and human-rights activists to push for passage of AB 1242, California's Human Right to Water Act of 2009.

If passed, AB 1242 would amend the State Water Code with a clear guarantee:

Every human being has the right to clean, affordable, and accessible water on an equitable basis, that is adequate for the health and well-being of the individual and family.

This legislation would represent a big step toward establishing the human right to water for all Americans, tipping the sale in favor of guaranteed human rights.

"Passage of this bill will inspire communities around the country and encourage state and national efforts to ensure that water for low-income communities is a priority in the United States," said Patricia Jones, manager of UUSC's Environmental Justice Program.

Learn more about the bill [PDF].

If you live in California, write a Letter in Support of AB 1242. Use our sample letter [PDF] or draft your own letter to show your support for AB 1242! Fax a copy of your letter to the UULM office at (916) 441-0015. If you have contacts, friends, or family in California, ask them to write a letter!