Governor Newsom Calls Federal Colorado River Plan a "Necessary Short-Term Step"

Governor Gavin Newsom today responded to the U.S. Department of the Interior's framework for managing the Colorado River over the next two years, calling it a "necessary step to protect a river that 40 million Americans depend on." He emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that "climate change is driving a regional water crisis that makes every drop of water count."

Newsom highlighted California's efforts, stating the state continues to lead by growing its economy while reducing Colorado River water use to its lowest level since 1949. He expressed appreciation for Secretary Burgum's collaboration with California and the other six basin states to reach this point.

However, the Governor cautioned that the plan offers "only short-term stability." He urged all basin states to "step up to conserve water and continue to work together across the basin to achieve a durable long-term approach." Newsom concluded by stressing that "Any long-term solution must share responsibility fairly across all seven states in recognition of the new reality of the Colorado River."