Wayne Allard: “California has had ample opportunity to meet its legal obligation; agreements outlining baby steps toward compliance…”

“California has had ample opportunity to meet its legal obligation; agreements outlining baby steps toward compliance with the 4.4 limit have been in existence since the 1990's. Even though the State has consumed far more than its fair share for years, it has had plenty of opportunity to live within its allocation. Yet in the end, with the water shutoff, I hope California will recognize its legal obligations. To Secretary Norton and my colleagues from the basin States, I urge you to continue to force all members to abide by their allocation and to protect the law. Secretary Norton's fair action has demonstrated that this administration will uphold the 'law of the river,' and when the law is not adhered to, those in violation will be held accountable. I have remained in close contact with Colorado Governor Bill Owens throughout the ordeal, and would like to share with you an insightful comment made by the Governor in a conversation we had shortly after the decision to shut off the water was announced Governor Owens said, 'In the West, our word is our bond. As Colorado suffers from the worst drought in its history, we cannot and will not support so-called 'surplus' water deliveries to California, unless California keeps its word to us.' I certainly agree. I commend the Secretary for her action, and hope this will serve as a clarion call that the law of the river is indeed a law that must be obeyed.”