Assembly Member Bennett's proposal to modify California's Dam Safety and Climate Resilience Local Assistance Program would add the removal of project facilities to the list of activities eligible for state funding. The program, which currently supports repairs, rehabilitation, and safety enhancements at state-regulated dams operating before January 1, 2023, provides grants to dam owners for projects that protect public safety and manage water resources.

The Department of Water Resources administers these grants according to a defined hierarchy of public benefits, with public safety protection receiving top priority, followed by water storage restoration, flood risk reduction, water supply reliability, habitat enhancement, and water quality protection. Recipients must provide a minimum 50% cost share, though this requirement may be reduced if it would impose extreme financial hardship or if the dam presents substantial safety risks. Federal funding and other state grants can fulfill the cost-share obligation.

The program maintains existing restrictions on fund usage, prohibiting projects that would raise dams, expand reservoir capacity, or increase water impoundment. Before implementing this change, the Department of Water Resources must develop new program guidelines and solicitation documents for the expanded scope of eligible projects.