Gov. Gavin Newsom’s budget plan for the fiscal yar stating July 1 has restored $40 million for San Joaquín Valley flood protection despite the projected deficit ballooning to $32 billion.

Newsom earlier this year removed the funding originally allocated in 2022 from the proposed state spending plan.

The money will go toward putting projects in motion that would:

*Prioritize the state’s investment in flood management over a 30-year planning horizon

*Promote multi-benefit projects that have flood control, water storage, and environmental components.

*Integrate and improve ecosystem functions associated with flood-risk-reduction projects.

“I am relieved and grateful that the Administration has prioritized an essential investment for flood management within the San Joaquin Valley,” said Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua, D-Stockton. “Every dollar we put towards flood management will help save lives, critical infrastructure, and our water supply down the line. I’m pleased that this issue is getting the spotlight it needs and deserves right now.”

Approximately 1.3 million Californians live and work in the valley’s floodplains, which contain approximately $223 billion worth of structures and their contents. 

Experts contend without sufficient and sustained investment in Central Valley flood management, the risk to life and property will increase.