H.B. No. 1633 amends Section 36.113(d) of the Water Code to refine the criteria that groundwater conservation districts must consider when granting or denying permits or permit amendments. The bill specifies that the proposed use of water must not unreasonably affect existing groundwater and surface water resources, existing permit holders, or wells registered with the district that are exempt from permit requirements. This addition aims to enhance the protection of water resources and ensure that the interests of current permit holders and registered wells are taken into account during the permitting process.

Additionally, the bill maintains existing criteria regarding the conformity of applications to prescribed requirements, beneficial use of water, consistency with the district's management plan, and commitments to water conservation and groundwater quality protection. 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)
House Committee Report: Water Code 36.113 (Water Code 36)
Engrossed: Water Code 36.113 (Water Code 36)
Senate Committee Report: Water Code 36.113 (Water Code 36)
Enrolled: Water Code 36.113 (Water Code 36)