Support Assembly Joint Resolution 12 to Fund Critical Wastewater Upgrades Near the Border and Declare a National Emergency

Surfrider and our coalition of 50+ partners are urging support of Assembly Joint Resolution 12 (AJR 12), introduced by Assemblymember Alvarez.  If passed, this resolution will request federal action to address the pollution crisis in the Tijuana River on behalf of our State Legislature.

AJR 12 calls for Congress and President Biden to fully fund the US EPA’s Comprehensive Infrastructure Solution for the Tijuana River. This funding is crucial to expand the treatment capacity of the South Bay International Treatment Plant to process up to 50 million gallons of effluent per day. The funding will also help cover a $150 million deficit caused by the International Boundary Water Commission in deferring maintenance on the International Wastewater Treatment Plant in the Tijuana River Valley — this plant is also currently not fully processing sewage. Ultimately both treatment plants need funding to make critical upgrades that can mitigate cross-border pollution.

The public health and environmental justice emergency in The Tijuana River Valley Watershed not only affects residents but also compromises the health and safety of public safety and national security personnel working at the border, including Customs and Border Patrol agents, Navy SEALs, lifeguards, and first responders. Ensuring clean water is a matter of public health, environmental justice, and national security.

By supporting AJR 12, we can push for the federal action needed to protect our waterways and ensure clean, safe water for all. Let's work together to make a lasting impact on our environment and public health.