A Small-Town Water Fight With Big Implications

A decision is expected soon on a lawsuit that could change the way we Californians pay for water. The case originated in the small town of San Juan Capistrano. Residents there say the way the city charges them for water is illegal. Like most of California, San Juan Capistrano uses a tiered water system. That means when you use more, you’re actually charged more per gallon. Conservationists say it’s a great way to get people to use less, especially during the drought. But if plaintiffs in the case prevail, it could have statewide ramifications.