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 proposed 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. These additions aim to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of the implications of water use on local resources and stakeholders.

In addition to the new criteria, the bill clarifies that the existing provisions regarding the renewal of operating permits under Section 36.1145 remain unaffected. The act will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds majority vote from both houses of the legislature; otherwise, it will become effective on September 1, 2025.

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