"Do the best you can until you know better.

Then when you know better, do better." 


— Maya Angelou

January 2026

The start of the year is a powerful pause, but also a continuation. True progress doesn’t come from abandoning who we were. It combines a fresh start with the momentum we’ve already achieved.


This isn't about scrapping the past; it’s about adding to our foundation. We don't lose our efforts. Every lesson forms a base for what comes next, allowing us to build with intention rather than starting from zero.


Rather than a total reset, view this time as a recalculation of route—much like a GPS. We are still driving toward the same destination, but we are pausing to assess the conditions and adjust our course with clarity. By honoring our past work while embracing the energy of the new year, we ensure that we aren't just starting over; we are evolving and continuing to build.


Lucas P. Reis


Last Chance for 303d Comments?

At its February 3rd meeting, the State Water Resources Control Board will consider adopting changes to the state’s 303d list, affecting how it regulates waterbodies for certain pollutants throughout the state.


This directly impacts how regional water quality control boards apply TMDLs (Total Maximum Daily Loads) into permits, and helps to demonstrate the overall health of California’s waters. Good news? State Water Board staff is recommending that many waterbodies and pollutants come off the list. Bad news? Many more are proposed for addition. Will it affect your projects or clients?


For more information go here.

New California Laws for 2026

What do the L.A. wildfires, AI transparency, and a standard refrigerator have in common? They are high priorities for California’s Legislature. These new laws go far beyond the basics, reshaping how products are manufactured and how business risk is assessed. We’ve broken down the key shifts you need to know—and why they matter for your bottom line.


Read more here

Clients Speak and We Listen

As attorneys, our mission is to serve our clients and help them achieve their goals. It’s a collaborative relationship built on trust and open communication.


This month, Jennifer met with many of our clients to obtain feedback on how we’re meeting their needs, whether we need to realign our strategy with changing goals and circumstances, and to ensure that we are constantly strengthening our client relationships.


Thank you to everyone who either participated in this opportunity or provided written comments! We value your time and appreciate hearing from you. Here’s what Jennifer learned:


1. While we aim to provide clear and frequent updates for our clients to understand their matter’s status, timing, and future, we occasionally fall short. We can improve how we communicate events and issues; for some clients, one time might not be enough.


2. We have clients who would like to update us, or get updates, but are afraid of incurring costs. Please do not be afraid. Please reach out to Jennifer and let her know what you need. We are here to work with you.


We’ll send out invitations for another round of client feedback in July. But if you have any concerns or we are not exceeding your expectations, please email Jennifer and we’ll set up time for a conversation about our team. We appreciate you and are here for you.

Connecting with the Community

Chairs’ Corner: The Value of Networking

On January 14, Jennifer joined ELS Chair Peter Ton for a special edition of Chairs’ Corner. As the 2020 ELS Chair, Jennifer drew from her own experience to discuss the vital role networking plays at every stage of a legal career.


The conversation covered practical insights on career growth, the importance of mentorship, and how to build meaningful professional connections, offering valuable takeaways for both early-career practitioners and seasoned attorneys.

Coming Up: Stormwater USA 2026 Conference

Jennifer will speak at the 2nd Annual Stormwater USA Conference, scheduled for February 2–3 in Orange County, California.


With the industry facing intensifying challenges from climate change and urban development, the event brings together professionals to discuss solutions, legal issues, policy, and management.


Register to participate at this link.

 
 

Law Office of

Jennifer F. Novak

Environmental Lawyers

www.jfnovaklaw.com

(310) 693-0775

 
 
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