California Influencers, a group of the state’s most respected experts in public policy, politics and government, weighed in on this question: What is the biggest environmental challenge facing the state?
Harmeet Dhillon – Republican National Committee member and Partner, Dhillon Law Group
“California’s inability to balance environmental considerations with the needs of the human beings who live in the state are causing major safety and quality of life issues for Californians. For example, rigid opposition to thinning tree growth near residential areas, and to clearing dead trees/undergrowth, contribute to the catastrophic fires we are experiencing today. The government’s insistence on treating every wet area as a ‘waterway’ subject to EPA regulation prevents farmers and other property owners from being able to use their land efficiently. Our failure to store water and prepare for dry spells means we are made to suffer water rationing even when water is abundant, with increased fire risk around residential areas as a result. Californians love the environment, but protections must be balanced against the long-term needs of the people who live here too.”
