William J. Thomas, Jr.

Of Counsel

William J. Thomas is of counsel in Best Best & Krieger LLP’s Sacramento office, practicing government relations and environmental law. Mr. Thomas is a registered lobbyist. He represents agriculture, agricultural business and water district interests before California governmental agencies such as the state and regional water boards and the Departments of Food and Agriculture, Fish & Game and Pesticide Regulation. He also works with federal agencies such as the United States Departments of Agriculture (Forest Service) and Interior (Fish & Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management).

Mr. Thomas’ clients include associations representing farmers, ranchers, chemical manufacturers, agriculture, and water agencies. He provides counsel and advocacy regarding water, water quality, market enforcement, pesticide registration, pest control, business licenses, and pesticides.

Mr. Thomas is a leading advocate for the ranching industry. He currently serves on the legal defense fund and other committees of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association. He is past vice president and serves on the board of directors of the California Cattlemen's Association, is also on the board of its legal defense fund, and is chair of its water and environmental quality committee.

Mr. Thomas has been appointed by the Governor and agency heads to many political, environmental and agricultural positions, such as the Uniform Environmental Statute Commission and AB 982 Advisory Group for California's Implementation of Total Maximum Daily Loads. He is a member and past chair (1986-1998) of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, Market Enforcement Advisory Committee and the Department of Pesticide Regulation, Pest Management Advisory Board.

Mr. Thomas received his Juris Doctorate from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law in 1975. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from the California State University, Chico, where he was student body president in 1968. California State University, Chico honored Mr. Thomas as the College of Agriculture Distinguished Alumni. He served as a LT, j.g. in the U.S. Navy.

Education

• University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, J.D. (1975)
• California State University, Chico, B.S.

Bar Admissions

• California (1975)