The bill, S.B. No. 624, amends Section 36.113(d) of the Water Code to establish additional criteria that groundwater conservation districts must consider when granting or denying permits or permit amendments. Specifically, the bill introduces new considerations regarding the potential impacts of water use on existing groundwater and surface water resources, existing permit holders, and wells that are registered with the district but exempt from permit requirements. The bill also clarifies that the proposed use of water must be dedicated to beneficial use and consistent with the district's approved management plan.

In addition to these insertions, the bill removes the previous language that only referenced the impact on existing groundwater and surface water resources without specifying the additional considerations. The bill emphasizes the importance of water conservation and groundwater quality protection by requiring applicants to agree to avoid waste and follow well plugging guidelines upon closure. The act will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote from both houses; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 36.113 (Water Code 36)