"WASHINGTON -- The California water bill now ready for the president's signature dramatically shifts 25 years of federal policy and culminates a long and fractious campaign born in the drought-stricken San Joaquin Valley.

A rough five years in the making, the $558 million bill approved by the Senate early Saturday morning steers more water to farmers, eases dam construction, and funds desalination and recycling projects. Its rocky road to the White House also proved a costly master class in political persistence and adroit maneuvering.

'I believe these provisions are both necessary, and will help our state,' said Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein.

Michael Doyle reports for McClatchy December 10, 2016. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"Boxer Ends Career With A Filibuster Over Surprise Rider In Water Bill" (San Francisco Chronicle) [3]

Editorial: "A Water Deal That’s Bad For California’s Environment" (Los Angeles Times) [4]