The SAFER Program provides funding and tools to ensure one million Californians lacking safe drinking water gain access quickly. It prioritizes emergency funding, compliance with health standards, system consolidations, and planning for long-term solutions, especially in small disadvantaged communities. Complementary funds support projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve climate resilience in low-income and disadvantaged communities across California.
Eligible applicants include public agencies, nonprofit organizations, tribal governments, public utilities, mutual water companies, and groundwater sustainability agencies in California. Funding to regulated utilities must benefit customers, not investors.
