Ed. Note: The following is a news release provided by the office of Assemblyman Scott Wilk.

The bill regarding the Santa Clarita Valley Sanitation District, proposed by Assemblyman Scott Wilk, R-Santa Clarita, passed the Senate and Assembly unanimously and is now heading to the governor’s desk.

Assembly Bill 951 will require the Santa Clarita Valley Sanitation District, or SCVSD, to hold regular and special meetings within the boundaries of the district when making policy decisions related to a total maximum daily load of pollutant levels.

Related: Assemblyman Scott Wilk’s Bill Requiring Santa Clarita Sanitation District To Meet In Santa Clarita Passes

“I urge the governor to support this common sense measure. Ratepayers shouldn’t have to drive to Whittier to participate in discussions that directly affect them,” Wilk said. “AB 951 will provide the residents of the Santa Clarita Valley with greater transparency and public oversight on the actions of Santa Clarita Valley Sanitation District.”

Currently the SCVSD holds their meetings in the city of Whittier, 50 miles from the community they have jurisdiction over.

This discourages public testimony from ratepayers and hinders their ability to stay informed on issues directly affecting their home values and water rates, said officials.

If signed by the governor, AB 951 will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2016.

The 38th Assembly District encompasses Simi Valley, the northwestern section of the San Fernando Valley and most of the Santa Clarita Valley.