SACRAMENTO – The Legislature has sent a bill by Assemblymember Jim Frazier (D-Discovery Bay) that seeks to remedy the problem of derelict commercial vessels in Delta waterways to the governor for his approval.
Assembly Bill 2441 directs the State Lands Commission, in consultation with state and local agencies, to develop a comprehensive plan for the removal of these hazardous craft.
“The Delta is a vibrant ecosystem that serves as a source of water for millions of Californians, supports a world-class agricultural industry and is a hub for businesses and recreational activities,” Frazier said. “Commercial vessels left to rot not only impair navigation in Delta waterways, they pose a significant environmental threat as toxic substances such as asbestos, lead-based paints, gasoline, diesel fuel and antifreeze leach into the Delta.”
A recent study found there are more than 250 abandoned vessels in the Delta. While most are recreational vessels, more than 50 are commercial.
“These are larger vessels that are more costly to remove and pose the biggest threat,” Frazier said.
AB 2441 directs the State Lands Commission to:
- By July 1, 2019 develop a plan to remove these commercial vessels, prioritizing risks to the Delta.
- Implement the plan when funding is appropriated by the Legislature, or when federal and private funds become available.
AB 2441 enjoyed unanimous bipartisan support in both houses of the Legislature.
Assemblymember Frazier represents the 11th Assembly District, which includes the communities of Antioch, Bethel Island, Birds Landing, Brentwood, Byron, Collinsville, Discovery Bay, Fairfield, Isleton, Knightsen, Locke, Oakley, Pittsburg (partial), Rio Vista, Suisun City, Travis AFB, Vacaville and Walnut Grove.
