FROM: Robert Thompson, General Manager
Originator: Jennifer Cabral, Director of Communications
SUBJECT:
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LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER 2025
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GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Receive and file the Legislative Affairs Update for the month of November 2025.
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BACKGROUND
The Orange County Sanitation District’s (OC San) legislative affairs program includes advocating for OC San’s legislative interests, sponsoring legislation (where appropriate), and seeking local, state, and federal funding for projects and programs.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
• Maintain influential legislative advocacy and a public outreach program
• Build brand, trust, and support with policy makers and community leaders
• Maintain collaborative and cooperative relationships with regulators, stakeholders, and neighboring communities
PROBLEM
Without a strong advocacy program, elected officials may not be aware of OC San’s mission, programs, and projects, or how they could be impacted by proposed legislation.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
Continue to work with Local, State, and Federal officials to advocate for OC San’s interests and help identify, create and monitor legislation and grants opportunities that would benefit OC San, the wastewater industry, and the community. To strengthen relationship building efforts, OC San will continue to engage elected officials through facility tours, one-on-one meetings, and outreach trips to Washington D.C. and Sacramento.
RAMIFICATIONS OF NOT TAKING ACTION
If OC San does not actively engage with Local, State, and Federal elected officials, legislation could be enacted that negatively impacts OC San and the wastewater industry. Additionally, lack of engagement may result in missed funding opportunities.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Activities in November:
• The 2026 Legislative and Regulatory Plan went before the November Administration Committee and was adopted by the Board of Directors.
Activities in December:
• As the legislature returns, we can expect bills to be introduced in late December and throughout January and February. OC San staff and Lobbyists will evaluate bills as they are introduced to establish if a position is deemed necessary and will bring to the Committee for comments and guidance.
CEQA
N/A
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
All items mentioned are included in OC San’s FY 2025-26 adopted Budget.
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s) may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov) with the complete agenda package:
• Federal Legislative Update
• Federal Matrix
• State Legislative Update
• Local Legislative Update
• Presentation