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California Lawmakers Approve $11B Water Overhaul

Christina Heller

Story Created: Nov 4, 2009 at 2:30 PM PDT

Story Updated: Nov 4, 2009 at 6:48 PM PDT

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - California lawmakers have passed an $11 billion overhaul of the state's antiquated water system, ending decades of debate over how to supply a soaring population while preserving the fragile environment.

The state Assembly passed a package of water bills and the bond measure to fund them before dawn Wednesday. The Senate - which earlier passed a less costly package - later approved the final version.

The plan calls for restoring the crucial Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. It also provides funding for new dams, groundwater cleanup, conservation and habitat restoration.

Schwarzenegger calls it a historic achievement that will allow California to prosper.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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