Californians asked to cut water usage by 15%

Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - Californians will be asked to further cut back on their water use as state officials warn that water scarcity will shape the future of the drought-stricken state.

It's important to note, those cut backs would come from cities and local water districts, not the state.

This as members of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Administration say allowing local retailers to set conservation needs is the best approach in a state of nearly 40 million people where water needs vary.

Gov. Gavin Newsom has previously called on all Californians to reduce their water use by 15% compared to 2020, but it’s not a mandate and so far total savings sit at 6%.

Currently, roughly 385 cities and other local water districts have to submit drought response plans to the state.

As less water becomes available, the local water districts will adopt more aggressive controls that establish how and when people can use water.