The bill proposes the establishment of the Groundwater Science, Research, and Innovation Fund, which will be administered by the Texas Water Development Board. This fund is intended to support financial assistance in the form of grants for groundwater conservation districts to enhance groundwater science, research, and innovation within the state. The fund will consist of various sources of revenue, including appropriated money, transfers from the board, investment returns, and donations. The board will develop criteria for the use of the fund, which will focus on improving local groundwater conditions, developing groundwater models, enhancing water conservation efforts, increasing groundwater recharge, and protecting groundwater quality.

Additionally, the bill outlines the evaluation process for grant applications, emphasizing the expected benefits of proposed projects and the districts' financial needs. It mandates that at least 35% of the fund's resources be allocated to districts with smaller populations and limited annual revenues. The board may also require matching funds from grant recipients, ensuring that districts contribute to the funding of their projects. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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