The bill amends existing water allocation laws in Iowa, specifically focusing on the definition and determination of "beneficial use" of water. It removes the current definition of beneficial use, which is defined as the application of water to a useful purpose that benefits the user while prohibiting waste or pollution. Instead, the bill stipulates that the Department of Natural Resources will assess beneficial use on a case-by-case basis when evaluating applications for permits related to the diversion, storage, or withdrawal of water, and this assessment will not be based on predefined categories of use.

Additionally, the bill modifies the processing priority for permit applications, changing the language to clarify that priority will be given based on the order applications are received, except when such a system would delay routine applications or threaten public health, safety, or welfare. It establishes a timeline for the approval or denial of permit applications, requiring decisions within ninety days for new applications and thirty days for renewals, while allowing for extensions if additional information is needed. The bill also mandates that all permits issued after July 1, 1986, include conditions for routine conservation practices and emergency measures as necessary.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 455B.261, 455B.265