The bill amends Chapter 18, Title 42 of the Idaho Code by adding a new section, 42-1807, which establishes conditions under which surface water usage may be curtailed. Specifically, it prohibits the director from curtailing surface water in one district to satisfy water rights claims in another district unless the affected users can seek relief within their own district. This relief includes the appropriation of various water sources managed by the state of Idaho.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that once both surface and groundwater districts in a tributary are fully operational and managed by the department, the priority doctrine of "first in time, first in right" and the rules for conjunctive management will apply to all water sources. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective from July 1, 2025.