Afghanistan: Californians could be fined for violating emergency water regulations --- California is considering a measure that could lead to $500-a-day fines for residents who waste water as the state faces a devastating and extended drought. -- The State Water Resources Control Board announced a proposal Wednesday that would let local governments fine those who hose surfaces such as driveways, sidewalks and asphalt, use hoses without shut-off nozzles, or run fountains without recirculating water. The proposal will be discussed by the board in a public meeting Tuesday in Sacramento. -- “Is this enough? No,” said Felicia Marcus, chairwoman of the board on a conference call with reporters Wednesday. Marcus said she hopes Californians go beyond in their water conservation. “Having a dirty car and a brown lawn is a badge of honor.” -- In its current state, the proposal lacks direct guidelines for how local governments should enforce it. Marcus said there is a possibility that the board’s regulations could escalate and become more direct, however. “I think it’s as limited as our creativity and our prudence.” -- Gov. Jerry Brown, who declared a state of emergency in January, has asked residents to reduce water usage by 20 percent, but it has only dropped by 5 percent, according to data through May from the board.